1 God Cursed Public Extras

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!Heading 1 !!Heading 1 !!!Heading 1 Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. //emphasised text//. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. ''strong text''. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. __underlined text__ Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. ---- * List item 1 * List item 2 [[Firstname]] [[Link 2]] [[Link 3]] <<button "Button" "More Styles">><</button>>

<div id="sidebar"> <div class="sidebar-header">  <div></div>  <h1 class="story-title" data-passage="gameTitle"></h1>  <div class="sidebar-toggle"> <span id="sidebar-toggle-icon" class="lnr lnr-menu-circle"></span> </div> </div>   <div class="sidebar-history-nav"> <span id="backwards-button" class="lnr lnr-arrow-left"></span> <span id="forwards-button" class="lnr lnr-arrow-right"></span> </div> <div id="sidebar-body">  <div class="story-logo" data-passage="storyLogo"></div>  <h2 class="story-author" data-passage="storyAuthor"></h2> <nav class="sidebar-nav"> <ul class="story-tools"> <li> <span id="restart-button" class="lnr lnr-redo"></span> <span class="tooltiptext">Restart</span> </li> <li> <span id="saves-button" class="lnr lnr-download"></span> <span class="tooltiptext">Saves</span> </li> <li> <span id="settings-button" class="lnr lnr-cog"></span> <span class="tooltiptext">Settings</span> </li> </ul> <ul class="story-menu" data-passage="storyMenu"> </ul> </nav> <nav id="social-media"> <p>Social media</p> <ul data-passage="socialMedia"> </ul> </nav> </div>  </div>  <div id="story" role="main"> <div id="passages"> <div id="passage-start" data-passage="start" class="passage"> </div> </div> </div>

<<nobr>>  <li>[[Credits]]</li> <li>[[Player Stats]]</li> <li>[[World Codex]]</li> <li>[[Relationships]]</li> <li>[[Character Info]]</li> <</nobr>>

<<set $hello = "hello">> [[Next|More Styles]]

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam maecenas. Sed egestas egestas fringilla phasellus faucibus scelerisque eleifend donec. Sed sed risus pretium quam. Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing enim eu. Nulla posuere sollicitudin aliquam ultrices sagittis orci. Pharetra vel turpis nunc eget lorem dolor sed. Vel orci porta non pulvinar neque laoreet suspendisse interdum. Tempor orci dapibus ultrices in iaculis. Eu mi bibendum neque egestas congue quisque egestas. Ultrices in iaculis nunc sed augue lacus viverra vitae. Sit amet porttitor eget dolor morbi. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin. Leo vel fringilla est ullamcorper eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin sed. Aliquet nibh praesent tristique magna. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque. Nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec. Nunc sed id semper risus in hendrerit. Non sodales neque sodales ut etiam sit amet nisl purus. Pellentesque elit eget gravida cum sociis. Consectetur purus ut faucibus pulvinar elementum. Ut faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Sed blandit libero volutpat sed cras ornare. Nisi vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam. Eu sem integer vitae justo eget magna. Mauris cursus mattis molestie a iaculis at erat pellentesque adipiscing. Mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec feugiat. Vel quam elementum pulvinar etiam non quam lacus suspendisse faucibus. Id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt arcu. Viverra aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing. Praesent elementum facilisis leo vel fringilla. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam maecenas. Sed egestas egestas fringilla phasellus faucibus scelerisque eleifend donec. Sed sed risus pretium quam. Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing enim eu. Nulla posuere sollicitudin aliquam ultrices sagittis orci. Pharetra vel turpis nunc eget lorem dolor sed. Vel orci porta non pulvinar neque laoreet suspendisse interdum. Tempor orci dapibus ultrices in iaculis. Eu mi bibendum neque egestas congue quisque egestas. Ultrices in iaculis nunc sed augue lacus viverra vitae. Sit amet porttitor eget dolor morbi. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin. Leo vel fringilla est ullamcorper eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin sed. Aliquet nibh praesent tristique magna. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque. Nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec. Nunc sed id semper risus in hendrerit. Non sodales neque sodales ut etiam sit amet nisl purus. Pellentesque elit eget gravida cum sociis. Consectetur purus ut faucibus pulvinar elementum. Ut faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Sed blandit libero volutpat sed cras ornare. Nisi vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam. Eu sem integer vitae justo eget magna. Mauris cursus mattis molestie a iaculis at erat pellentesque adipiscing. Mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec feugiat. Vel quam elementum pulvinar etiam non quam lacus suspendisse faucibus. Id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt arcu. Viverra aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing. Praesent elementum facilisis leo vel fringilla. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam maecenas. Sed egestas egestas fringilla phasellus faucibus scelerisque eleifend donec. Sed sed risus pretium quam. Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing enim eu. Nulla posuere sollicitudin aliquam ultrices sagittis orci. Pharetra vel turpis nunc eget lorem dolor sed. Vel orci porta non pulvinar neque laoreet suspendisse interdum. Tempor orci dapibus ultrices in iaculis. Eu mi bibendum neque egestas congue quisque egestas. Ultrices in iaculis nunc sed augue lacus viverra vitae. Sit amet porttitor eget dolor morbi. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin. Leo vel fringilla est ullamcorper eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin sed. Aliquet nibh praesent tristique magna. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque. Nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec. Nunc sed id semper risus in hendrerit. Non sodales neque sodales ut etiam sit amet nisl purus. Pellentesque elit eget gravida cum sociis. Consectetur purus ut faucibus pulvinar elementum. Ut faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Sed blandit libero volutpat sed cras ornare. Nisi vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam. Eu sem integer vitae justo eget magna. Mauris cursus mattis molestie a iaculis at erat pellentesque adipiscing. Mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec feugiat. Vel quam elementum pulvinar etiam non quam lacus suspendisse faucibus. Id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt arcu. Viverra aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing. Praesent elementum facilisis leo vel fringilla. <<button "Next" "More Styles">><</button>>

<<set $hello = "hello">> <<print $hello.toUpperFirst()>> <<= $hello.toUpperFirst()>> !!! Checkbox: <<checkbox "$checkboxVar1" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 1 <<checkbox "$checkboxVar2" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 2 <<checkbox "$checkboxVar3" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 3 !!! Cycle: <<cycle "$cycleVar" autoselect>> <<option "Option 1">> <<option "Option 2">> <<option "Option 3">> <<option "Option 4">> <<option "Option 5">> <</cycle>> !!! Listbox: <<listbox "$listboxVar" autoselect>> <<option "Option 1">> <<option "Option 2">> <<option "Option 3">> <<option "Option 4">> <<option "Option 5">> <</listbox>> !!! Radiobutton: <<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 1" autocheck>> Option 1 <<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 2" autocheck>> Option 2 <<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 3" autocheck>> Option 3 !!! Textarea: <<textarea "$textareaVar" "Type text here..">> !!! Textbox: <<textbox "$textboxVar" "Type answer here">>

God-Cursed

by <a href="https://www.tumblr.com/blog/wings-of-ink" target="_blank">Lunan</a>

<li><a href="https://www.tumblr.com/blog/wings-of-ink" target="_blank">Tumblr</a></li> * <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4YGEVpdvWQv7qimf6YnKJR?si=d00e062e4db34e96" target="_blank">Music</a></li> * <li><a href="https://forms.gle/mFcLZaPyQKHn4PLz7" target="_blank">Bug Report</a></li>

!Stat page <<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">Character Information</div></h1> </body> </html> <div class="centered-image"> <<if $mark is 'tree'>><<include "treeimage">><<elseif $mark is 'sun'>><<include "sunmark">><<elseif $mark is 'storm'>><<include "stormmark">><<elseif $mark is 'plants'>><<include "plantmark">><<elseif $mark is 'night'>><<include "nightmark">><<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>><<include "mountmark">><</if>> </div> Your name is ''$mc Northbreaker''. <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:20px;"> Personality:</h1> </body> </html> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 50>>You tend to be more socially ''reserved''. <<elseif $ReservedOutgoing < 50>>You take a more ''outgoing'' approach to social situations. <<else>>You tend to walk the middle-ground between being socially reserved and outgoing.<</if>> <br> <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>You tend to be more ''gentle'' in your nature. <<elseif $GentleAssertive < 50>>You tend to have a more ''assertive'' nature. <<else>>You are neither especially gentle nor assertive.<</if>> <br> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>You tend to take things more ''seriously''. <<elseif $SeriousPlayful < 50>>You are a more ''playful'' sort of person. <<else>>You do not favor seriousness or playfulness.<</if>> <br> <<if $RecklessCautious > 50>>Being ''reckless'' seems to be your go-to response. <<elseif $RecklessCautious < 50>>For you, being ''cautious'' is more important. <<else>>You are not especially reckless or cautious.<</if>> <br> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt > 60>>When it comes to matters of flirtation, you prefer to be ''clear'', leaving no questions about your intention. The allure of your boldness attracts a lot of attention. <<elseif $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Flirting for you is a little more ''subdued'', perhaps even awkward, but it is no less effective. Despite the nature of this shyness, your methods garner attention and adoration. <<else>>You keep a balance in your flirtatious endeavors, being neither exclusively bold nor shy.<</if>> <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:20px;"> Description and Background:</h1> </body> </html> You are a $manwoperson with $hairlength, $haircolor, $hairtexture hair and $eyecolor eyes. You usually wear your hair $hairstyle. You have a beautiful body that is $bodytype. <<if $tat1 is true>>You do not have any tattoos.<</if>> <<if $tat2 is true>>You have a tattoo of a waning crescent moon on your right arm.<</if>> <<if $tat3 is true>>You have a tattoo of a great bird, with wings spread, spanning your chest.<</if>> <<if $tat4 is true>>Your left arm has a tattoo of a coiled snake with great fangs.<</if>> <<if $tat5 is true>>The forearm on your left has a tattoo of a beautiful tree.<</if>> <<if $tat6 is true>>Both of your hands have patterns of geometric lines tattooed on them.<</if>> <<if $tat7 is true>>Your right shoulder-blade has a tattoo of a fierce wolf.<</if>> <<if $tat8 is true>>Your left shoulder-blade has a tattoo of a collection of flowers.<</if>> <<if $tat9 is true>>You have a left ankle cuff tattoo that is reminiscent of jewelry.<</if>> <br> <br> <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>As a child, you learned and gained a great deal of skill in logging. You have a special axe gifted to you by your papa, that you can wield with great confidence.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Beginning in your childhood, you learned carpentry from your papa. You know how to build almost anything, and your skills have made you deft with the fine tools gifted to you by your father.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You began learning swordsmanship in your early years, taught by your da. The sword you wield today was a gift from your da and you handle it with expertise and reverence.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>It is rare to see you without the trusty bow your parents made and gifted you. You've been honing your archery skills since childhood and are quite adept in your art.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You have a vested interest in the ways of healing, which you began learning from childhood. The knowledge of herbs and medicine have been ingrained in you and given you a good bit of renown.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Since you were a child, you have studied the art of trade and economy. You are a shrewd and clever merchandiser with a good following of happy cutsomers.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>There are not many who can tout the level of cooking skill you have acquired since childhood. From ground to table you can prepare about any meal, making your name whispered among commoners and nobility alike when good food is brought up.<</if>> <br> <br> <<if $interestwound is 'axescarbelowrightknee'>>You have a long scar below your right knee from where you accidentally struck yourself with your axe while splitting a log.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'treescrapeonleftshoulder'>>After a falling tree caught you by the left shoulder, tearing the skin badly, you were left with a unique scar.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'punctureinrightarm'>>You have a scar on your right arm from where the flesh was punctured by a sharp stick after a nasty fall down a hill. You're still a bit embarrassed by it.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'scaracrosshand'>>A slip of the hand while working with a sharp took, cut your hand open and left you a scar to prove that you put literal blood, sweat and tears into your craft.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'scaronbackofthigh'>>On of your thighs bears the scar from when you tested a piece of furniture, only to have it collapse, sending you to the ground and an iron nail into your thigh.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'lefttemplemark'>>Your left temple bears a partially obscured scar from when a board hit you directly in the head, knocking you out for a while and leaving you with a concussion for a while.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>An idiot kid who lost to you while sparring left you with a scar along your back when he took a cheap swipe at you. The tip of his blade cut from waist to shoulder.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'oswinscar'>>During a spar that became too heated, your childhood friend, Oswin, accidentally struck your right arm with too much fervor. He was very upset and never seemed to forgive himself for hurting you.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'swordbuttscar'>>You have dark scar running along the middle of your left buttock. You don't like talking about it.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'stringslap'>>There's a thin scar on your forearm from where you struck it quite badly with the string of your bow. You had forgetting to wear your guard while doing extra practice. It was the last time you forgot.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'frontshouldershotscar'>>A sitting champion at an archery competition took a cheap shot at you after you beat their decade-long streak, leaving you with a scar. A fellow competitor managed to disrupt the shot, so it only hit the meat of your right shoulder rather than your heart.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'arrowsrightbutt'>>You have three parallel scars in the center of your right buttock and you don't like talking about them.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'burnonleftlowleg'>>A large burn scar spans half of your left lower leg after a cauldron bubbled over and spewed, ironically, burn ointment on you. Thankfully you moved quick enough that only your leg was hit.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'bitemarkleftarm'>>You were bitten on the upper left arm by a patient experiencing an intense delirium. It was deep and you bled terribly, but you thankfully staved off infection. The scar is a very clear bite-mark.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'righthandpoison'>>After foraging for herbs to use in your medicines, you developed a horrible and painful rash. It swelled and caused teh skin to split open, leaving you with jagged pale lines across the back of your right hand.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'neckrash'>>A spooked donkey and a leather bag not only left you with a scar around your neck, but nearly killed you. The donkey bolted, snagging your bag in the reins and dragging you along by the neck until it, thankfully, broke, leaving you with a raw and bleeding neck wound.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'pinfinger'>>You lost at a game of pinfinger to a drunk woman who had been razzing you. You stabbed through your middle finger, but at least you still sold her something and received a marriage proposal to boot.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'eyebrowscar'>>Falling face-first into your wagon left you with a scar that splits your right eyebrow. It knocked you unconscious for a while and bled a lot, but you were otherwise okay. The scar on your pride will last longer than the one in your eyebrow.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'handknifescar'>>Every cook has cut themselves, and you're no different. You sliced your palm open while cutting bread as you were foolishly holding it in your hand. You always remembered to use a cutting board after that.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'leftarmburn'>>The panicked and foolish actions of an assistant cook, flared up a grease fire directly at you. You managed to block your face with your left arm, but that arm now bears the knotted scar from the ordeal.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'headwound'>>A pan fell on you. It scarred your forehead. You don't like talking about it.<</if>> <</nobr>> <<if hasVisited("creation 5")>>Your preferred clothing style consists of <<if $clothing is "comfortable">>anything comfortable<<elseif $clothing is "regular">>any regular run-of-the-mill items<<elseif $clothing is "business">>professional, more austere items<<elseif $clothing is "color">>items of bold expressive color<<elseif $clothing is "revealing">>revealing articles<</if>> though you are sometimes limited by the whims of the season.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("creation 9")>>As of the morning of your 24th birthday, you had <<if $romance is 'nointerest'>>little to no interest in romance<<elseif $romance is 'experienced'>>experience with both romantic and physical relationships<<elseif $romance is 'onlyphysical'>>only experienced the physical aspects of relationships<<elseif $romance is 'feelingsnophys'>>experienced only romantic feelings towards others before<<elseif $romance is 'interestednoxp'>>interest in developing a romantic relationship but no experience<</if>>. As of now, you have<<if $virgin is false>> had sexual experience<<else>> had no sexual experience<</if>>.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("In the next step, you take each one for a ride.")>>Your fathers purchased a <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>beautiful mare for you. She is mostly a flaxen chestnut color with a much lighter shade of tan for her mane and tail. She has white stockings on her back legs, white tickling on her belly that travels up her back. You named her $mountname. She is quite gentle and loves to give you kisses. She can also be on the nervous side, and doesn't respond very well to perceived threats.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>beautiful stallion for you. He is almost all black except for a white snip on his nose. His build is stocky and powerful, but he is sweet-natured and brave. Though he is not nervous in the face of danger, he is strong-willed and does not always listen to you. You named him $mountname.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>gorgeous gelding for you. He is a mahogany bay color with black knees, mane and tail, but with white feathering over his hooves. He is very big and powerful but extremely calm. He readily follows commands even in the face of danger and is friendly to all. You named him $mountname.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>mule who is beautiful in your eyes. She is big by mule standards and grey with black mane and tail, but her feet are white. She is spunky with a personality as big as her ears. You find her to be unusually smart, highly independent, and a little weird. Cross her, and she will fight you. You named her $mountname.<</if>><</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.61")>>Your favorite hobby is $hobby and you are $hobbycomfort about it.<</if>> <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Your Home [[World]] [[Lore]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Relationships -Under Construction- *Oswin: *Zahn: *Duri'naan: *Rūndis: <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Character Information [[Romanceable Characters]] -Under Construction- [[Family and Friends]] [[Others]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<<nobr>> <<set $ReservedOutgoing to 50>> <<set $GentleAssertive to 50>> <<set $SeriousPlayful to 50>> <<set $RecklessCautious to 50>> <<set $BoldflirtShyflirt to 50>> <<set $Oflirt to 0>> <<set $Zflirt to 0>> <<set $Dflirt to 0>> <<set $Rflirt to 0>> <<set $Aflirt to 0>> <<set $Aheart1 to 0>> <<set $Aheart2 to 0>> <<set $Dshy to 0>> <<set $Dbold to 0>> <<set $Rshy to 0>> <<set $Rbold to 0>> <<set $Zshy to 0>> <<set $Zbold to 0>> <<set $Ashy to 0>> <<set $Abold to 0>> <<set $merchantopinion to 5>> <<set $anx to 0>> <</nobr>>

[[Iroda]] [[Map]] [[Government]] [[Current Emperors]] [[Calendar]] [[Culture and Holidays]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

[[Pantheon]] [[Creation]] -Under Construction- <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Oswin Twinflower !Zahn !Duri'naan !Rūndis Lyreheart <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

*The entire known world is called Iroda. No one knows just how the world came to be, but it is almost a certainty that Iroda and its people are not the first humans upon the world. It wasn’t documented how this is known as it was many, many years ago and has been passed by word-of-mouth. The people that walk the land today are descended from those from the “Old World” (aka "The World that Came Before") that managed to survive. The Old World was destroyed, but no one knows how. It has been passed down from generation to generation that the land, skies, and waters rebelled against human existence and rose up to destroy them. Humans barely survived until the world cooled its anger and became hospitable once again. With help from the magic of gods and the formation of the new world, the human lifespan increased a great deal. At its peak, humans regularly saw 200 years of age, but this has decreased and leveled off to around 160 (assuming one could survive) and continues to very slowly decline each generation. Iroda is one giant landmass with one outlier just beyond its borders, The Isle of the Gods – so called because it is the known birthplace of the first nine gods in the pantheon, and eventually the twenty “lesser” gods that came after them. The sea that stretches beyond its borders is called The Derin Sea. A great river traverses all of Iroda from North to South, called Udo. When the gods departed from human society, they helped them to establish boundaries and structure to their lives. A system of land and government was made as Iroda was too massive a place to be guided with just one entity. The land was divided into three segments, provinces, that already naturally occurred: the North – called Norwood, the Central – called Mahdeh, and the South – called Auster. Norwood (capital: Burkhard) is most known for its much colder environment and the multiple mountain ranges that can be seen even a great ways into the central region of Iroda. The people there become hardier than most and are widely known for their kindness that juxtaposes the harsh conditions that the North can bring. The people there will tell you that they are kind because it is the warmth that is needed to keep winter at bay. Though Iroda acknowledges four distinct seasons, winter last much longer in Norwood. The area still experiences a mild spring/planting season during which hardy plants can be grown in most of the province. There is not much of a summer in way of weather, but there usually are around 15 days that are much warmer than the others. Autumn is quite beautiful in Norwood and in the southern-most areas, can last quite a while before winter takes hold again. Mahdeh (capital: Tallulah), as it spans the middle of Iroda, is a bit of a mix of Northern and Southern characteristics. There are some low mountains and hills, deep and vast forests for which it is mostly known, and even expanses of plains. Mahdeh experiences all four seasons in their truest forms, and is the primary reason that all four were acknowledged on the official calendar. The region is also home to a significant landmark called, “The Fields of Desolation.” It is a massive area that was once lush forest, but was devastated by the god, Hayat – the god of life, who dwelt there as he mourned the death of his wife, Takumi – the goddess of grief. His own grief was so profound that it took all life from the area. The longer he mourned, the bigger the area grew. No one knows how long he was there, but even hundreds of years later, no life can be sustained there, and it is a haven for the few evil spirits and demons that remain in Iroda. It is said that even Hayat did not know how to bring life back to the fields. Auster (capital: Hodan), being the southern-most province, is the warmest of the three. Winter in Auster is very short and it is extremely rare that they see snow, while summers are long and fruitful. The southern province is a great source of food for all of Iroda as crops can grow there year-round. This province is easily the wealthiest of all and has a greater number of citizens who are abundantly prosperous, and some of the largest cities in the known world are located here. As Auster has the largest amount of accessible coastline, they have the most ships and sailors in use, which transport goods around to the other provinces. They are also skilled in traversing the Udo River against its current and areas of hazerdous water. Fishing is popular here and the land is home to many still-active churches and cults. The Derin Sea is mostly peaceful, but once it is traversed quite a ways from land by ship in any direction, sailors come across a massive expanse of turbulent waters, known as “the storm currents,” or formally, “Llyr’s Wrath,” after the god of the sea. The expanse is so far from land that few ships can make it safely or store enough provisions in order to survive the trip. Those that have tried to cross Llyr’s Wrath have never returned, and often, pieces of their ships are discovered later. The sea has been explored a great deal up to the storm currents, but no one is certain what lays beyond it. It is rumored that there must be other civilizations across the expanse as sailors have found all manner of mysterious items in their travels – peculiar metals and trinkets that no one can seem to find a use for. Sometimes things wash up on the shores of Iroda with writing on them that no one can decipher. The only solution is that there must be more people out there. Some have dedicated their lives to discovering ways to safely cross Llyr’s Wrath, or to even send messages to the other side in hopes that whomever is out there can reach back. The Udo River spans all three provinces, flowing down from the mountainous northern region. In places, the current becomes quite rough and during flooding, is extremely dangerous. Seasonal snow and ice-melt make the river swell regularly. The Isle of the Gods, is, as the name suggests, an island where all gods originated from. No one knows how gods came to be – even the gods do not understand it – but it is known that it happened here and then gods were able to beget more gods as they had children. The island is home to a strange single mountain. The remaining landmass is mostly flat, making the presence of the mountain a bit odd. No one currently knows for sure what is all on the island. A fog obscures it from view and the waters are so unfriendly that is impossible to get close for anyone but gods. When gods parted ways from humans, it is said that most returned to the island to live out the rest of eternity among their own kind. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

The gods, before they parted, assisted in establishing a system that humans could govern themselves by. It was a long process, and one that Hayat & Casimir were determined to make as corruption-free as possible. Each province is represented by an Emperor (title used for all genders). It was important that each region with its unique strengths and weaknesses be representative as fairly as possible. Though each would have its own emperor, Iroda was no-less a unified entity; the three rule in tandem and cooperation for the success of all. Emperors are required to lead modest lives and their wealth is strictly regulated. However, due to the demands of their job, they do live in good comfort with their families and are allowed a few luxuries. They are often chosen “from the ground up,” elevated by the below councils. Even a commoner can find themselves in the running for emperor if they prove to be an exemplary person. Descendants of emperors //can// be selected as new emperors, but it is not easy as the Council of Monarchs, detailed below, must agree unanimously that the heir is the best fit for the position, and any other candidate must be deemed insufficient. The descendant must have proved their worth outside of simply being the child of the emperor. It has been historically very rare for the children of emperors to take up the mantle. The title of emperor is also age-restricted. They must be a minimum of 20 years of age and, generally, a maximum of 100 years of age. It has been rare for someone as young as 20 to take the throne. Should an emperor reach age 100 and no heir has been established, their rule can be extended up to another 25 years for the purpose of finding or training-up an heir. It is restricted in such a way as to ensure that the position will not be held by someone too “out-of-touch” with the world that the younger generation is being brought up in, as most decisions made will be on their shoulders for many more years to come. To keep emperors in line, several units of leadership were established below them consisting of all walks of human life, from wealthy nobles to common citizens. Each region has the following: 1. A monarchy of seven—a group of kings, queens, and monarchs that total no more or less than seven in the region, spread as equally as possible throughout the province. They oversee the economy and taxation of their location and report on specific issues that concern their lands. Monarchs are never allowed to become emperors, though their own crowns can be passed to their children if the below councils agree that the young majesties are fit to lead. Monarchs act as advisors as well as power-balance to their emperors. They tend to live wealthier, given the nature of their positions. Because of their proximity to civilians, they and their families also tend to become “celebrities.” They may be the center of gossip and infatuation. Though the role has more corruption at its heel, it is usually well-regulated by the below councils. 2. The Council of Thanes, also called Governors. Thanes, totaling 15 for each province, provide even more localized leadership. They keep the monarchy abreast of information and concerns for their locations. They meet frequently with the next two councils. These meetings are where much of the information that will get passed up to the emperors stems from. It requires a great deal of accurate documentation to ensure the message does not become skewed. 3. The Council of Ministers: totaling 31 people who function as a sort of mayor from cities and towns throughout the province. They resolve small local disputes and relay information to the Thanes. They are generally in charge of ensuring regions have adequate guards to keep peace among citizens, though they are not allowed to control the guard, which is done by each town's own governing council. 4. The Common Council: comprised of 63 citizens of varying backgrounds, usually of low to average wealth. It is rare to have any very wealthy members in order to keep a balance of representation in government. Many emperors have had their start in this council, being able to display their dedication to Iroda’s people. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

*Norwood Province: Leon DeNorthwood —A very popular and powerful leader, she is most known for being an incredibly rare mage. Her specialty is using magic to amplify her natural strength and grace. She has a fierce presence, a strong build, and a large crown of black curly hair that falls to her mid-back. It is rumored that her eyes shine like gold. Despite how commanding she presents herself, she is known to be more kind and open, though in the face of corruption or stupidity, she freely unleashes her temper. She maintains a deep, platonic love with a person she regards like a spouse, though they have not officially wed. They have adopted several orphaned children together. When she is not carrying out empire-business or tending her family, you can find her in the mountains with her pack of giant snow-cats. *Mahdeh Province: Gallus of Windsor —Being of very modest origins, Gallus does not have a surname so he is simply referred to by the town he is from, Windsor. Being of moderate build with short brown hair and eyes, he does not stand out much in a crowd. He is currently one of the newest emperors in Iroda, being appointed in Cycle 858 to replace Sybella Maya who stepped down for personal reasons. He is the youngest of the three current emperors. He was quickly elevated to the running for position for demonstrating exceptional wisdom for his age. He is known as a quiet, serious, and dutiful leader, though he demonstrated some reluctance in assuming the job. His mannerisms make him appear very meek, but he becomes fired up at the first sign of an injustice. He is known for being quite humble and preferring simple things, though he has a love of fine clothing, which he tries to keep secret (and fails, because everyone knows). He’s currently single, and his shy, elusive nature has given him quite the fan-base. *Auster Province: Notus Strand —A woman of noble birth, who is known for remaining quite humble despite her origins. A voluptuous build with short, wavy blond tresses and green eyes tends to disarm those that approach her; however she is shrewd and clever. She favors reason and logic and is known to be an excellent listener as well as brutally honest. Her favorite pastimes include irritating the monarchy and fishing. She frequently escapes her royal home in favor of casting a line from the docks or patching nets with local sailors. She is married to a famous seafarer with whom she has three children, only one of which is still young enough to remain at home with her. It is well-known that she still worships Llyr. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

A year in Iroda is also called a “cycle,” in reference to the completion of the four named seasons that repeat year after year. Humans and gods also designed the calendar after the war, most of which was based off of the cycle of weather in the central province since the best representation for all was found there. A cycle consists of 400 days and each season is assigned 100 days each. There is some overlap of weather in the beginnings and endings of seasons, but not enough to make a significant difference for which season is present. Seasons are referred to as: 1. Spring/Planting Season 2. Summer/Growing Season 3. Autumn/Harvest Season 4. Winter/Quiet Season (occasionally called simply “the cold season” or “rest season”) There are no named days of the week or months. Dates are denoted by the current year, the season, and the number of the day within that season. For example, Ravinder was born in Cycle 849 on the 9th day of Spring (849, 9-Spring). Weeks and (more loosely) months are still regarded as simple measurements of time. Depending on the person, a week may reference five to ten days, and a month could be 20-40 days. They are more just rough estimates of time since it is simpler to say "1 week or 2 months." More often, if one needs to be specific in regard to the season, the number of days is used in reference of how much time something takes, such as for travel, growing crops, or until one's birthday. Both the Northern and Southern Provinces follow the same calendar and seasons as the Middle Province, though their weather differs a great deal. Winter in the South is not very quiet or restful, Summer in the North is more of a short stint of time that you don't need a cloak to get by. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Dov Northbreaker Your loving papa is a mighty woodsman with an even mightier heart. The typical gentle giant, Dov has raised you with love and care since you were a babe. He’s deadly with an axe, though he only uses them on trees. Dov is soft-spoken, very introverted, and shy. He has an affinity for animals and carpentry. He loves to create and fix anything and everything especially for his child or husband. Dov is also a very deep feeler and, though the quiet type, wears his heart on his sleeve – easily tearing up when moved. Your papa is extremely tall and has very wide shoulders with massive muscles built by chopping trees down by hand for many years. His skin is tan, his eyes are brown, as is his shaggy hair, but his beard has patches with dark auburn running through it. !Kip Northbreaker Your fiery da and spouse to your papa, he’s as quick to sass you as he is to shoot a bow. This lovable clown understood absolutely nothing about children, but adopted you regardless when you needed a home. He loves you with his whole being, even if he never lets you win at darts. He works as a huntsman and fisherman, and though his skill is unmatched, his looks and demeanor never seemed to fit his choice in work. Kip may be the compete opposite of his husband, being extroverted and, often, loud. He tends to be the life of a party, and seeks to make everyone laugh. You grew up with him pranking you as often as possible without doing too much psychological damage. Your da is above average in height and has an agile build with a good amount of muscle from wielding a bow regularly. He has fawn colored skin, short and wispy brown hair, and hazel eyes. He keeps his beard cropped short and always seems to be smiling. He has a love for expensive clothing and pops of bold color. !Ravinder Axemaiden Your grandmother on your papa's side is a solemn woman, whom you know little about considering she's your grandmother. She is very quiet and private, one of the last in a long line of nomads that once roamed all of Iroda. Though her only child took to settling down in one place, she continues to live as a nomad, traveling the same route her ancestors had for many generations. As her adopted surname suggests, she is known for wielding an axe, and not just against trees. She is known as a fierce warrior among many, always with her trusty weapon on hand. Though she comes off as unfriendly, she loves her family dearly in her own way and raised Dov by herself, teaching him all she knew. Though she does not openly express her emotions, she could not help the tears of joy when she first held you as a baby – her precious grandchild. Ravinder is tall and muscular, even in her advanced age, she is still very able-bodied. Her long hair is completely grey, as are her eyes, though Papa has told you she once had flowing red hair. Her face has notable scars along the left side, and she typically dresses in sleeveless tunics and simple trousers, with the occasional fur trim when it gets cold. !Lakota (Aster) Twinflower Your best friend since childhood, Lakota is an affectionate soul who would never hurt a fly – though he’d give it a stern talking-to. Being sickly as a child, you were brought together a great deal, especially since his parents are the town healers. You were practically joined at the hip, enough that people believed you were siblings. Lakota is sweet and gentle all around. Taking after his father, he loves to help others and is skilled in medicine. He’s a soft sort and a little bit gullible, which his sisters frequently took advantage of growing up. He was always closest with his big brother, Oswin, and you. He takes what he perceives as failure very hard, so he strives to do things perfectly. Your friend is fair-skinned, with wild curly blond hair that reaches his shoulders. Being average in height, his frame is quite lean and wiry from his years as a sickly kid. He has deep brown eyes, cannot grow a beard for anything, though he has tried about every tonic combination to encourage one. !Kavi Twinflower Stonebrook’s famous healer and father to your friends Lakota and Oswin, Kavi is a kind and diligent soul. He’s spent years researching your illness, never giving up and taking very thorough notes. He has a youthful persona, though he’s starting to get age-lines around his face. Kavi is fair-skinned with bright green eyes, his hair was once jet black, but is steadily greying. Even his well-trimmed beard is mostly grey. !Betony Twinflower Stonebrook’s other famous healer and midwife, Betony is a motherly force in every sense, and not just to Lakota and Oswin. She cared for you like her own child, ensuring you were always fed and warm during your most difficult times. She is stern but fair and deadly with a spoon. Betony has brown skin with patches of ivory along her face, neck and shoulders. She has long golden curly hair, and brown eyes with a perpetual bright smile. !Sage & Poppy Twinflower Oswin and Lakota’s...creepy twin sisters. They’re never apart and always – always – appear to be up to something. They watched over you, Lakota, and Oswin when you were children – why they ever seemed trustworthy to your parents is a mystery you’ve yet to solve. Though, you’ve heard whispers about strange misfortunes befalling the other children whom caused you grief…The two are identical and like to lean into it, having tan skin, extremely long black hair, and bright green eyes, they also dress alike. You are never quite sure what they do every day. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Nathanael An eccentric merchant who’s always looking for the next big thing. Nathanael enjoys irritating those that are too serious, and enjoying all of life’s little pleasures. Traveling to sell his wares from a big colorful cart pulled by a great elk, his best friend is a cat who appears rather nonplussed. He’s taken a shine to you and might offer steep discounts if you flatter him. Nathanael is a bit tall and somehow both foppish and clumsy. His hair and beard are black and are showing a good deal of white these days. He has bright hazel eyes that shine with a slight blue hue. He appreciates elegant clothing in bright colors – anything that has a nice drape to it. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">The First Gods</div></h1> </body> </html> <</nobr>> As they are commonly called and as this name suggests, these nine deities are the first known and acknowledged by the world. They were also all familially related to each other in some way. Not much is known about their origins and it is uncertain if the information has been lost to time or if the gods themselves have kept silent about it. What is certain, is that more gods came after them, but none were as prolific and powerful as the original nine. It is said that humans who have dwelt closely to all gods, but especially these nine, lived hundreds of years beyond their normal lifespan. Most believe this is the reason today why human lives still reach the span they do, but as magic dwindles more and more, so do the years of human life. All gods have a domain of sorts. It is a catalyst of the powers they are most adept with. Though they are all powerful in many areas, they typically only //draw// power from their catalyst. The greater the catalyst, the more powerful the god. !Hayat The god of life and growth. Known to be kind and loving, and very nurturing. Historically he was known to be very soft-natured and determined. Plants, animals, and people naturally flourish around him and he is credited for being the foundation of all human existence. Despite his nature, he is the originator of the God Wars which killed many gods and dismantled their hold over humans. As the war was against the very fabric of his life and power, it caused him immeasurable pain and grief. After losing his beloved wife in the midst of the fighting, he grieved for many years in a forest in northwest Mahdeh, in an area now known as The Fields of Desolation. During his time of grief, his power devoured all of the life within the land, rendering the forest devoid of all life for hundreds of years since. No one is certain what pulled Hayat from his grief to stop the destruction, but it is rumored that his sister, one of his daughters, and a devoted human friend helped pull him from his misery. The fields are inhospitable to anyone and the negative power there attracts demons in droves. Rumors of an artifact left there by Hayat still draw brave and foolish adventurers to the Fields. Most never return. !Casimir The goddess of destruction. Sister and boon companion to Hayat, she was known to be quiet and kind, but also direct and realistic. She had an intimate understanding of how destruction – the breakdown of everything – is a part of life, and through it, new life can begin. She was in every way Hayat’s counterpart, and they were known to be extremely close and supportive of each other. Much of her personal life remains a mystery. She kept to herself and took her duties seriously. Like, Hayat, she had a large hand in helping humans find their footing in the world. It was thought that drawing her favor during battles would guarantee success, and today she is still worshiped and favored by guards, mercenaries, and even bandits. She is widely known as the reason for Hayat’s success in The God Wars. Many troublesome gods perished by her hands – work that Hayat could not bring himself to do. While her brother grieved his wife and the war, she took over the efforts to see their plans come to fruition. She believed firmly that humans should determine their own destiny and was disgusted by their mistreatment by cruel gods. It is said that she still walks Iroda, administering her judgment, and enforcing Hayat’s curse on the gods by keeping them in line. !Aigar The goddess of time. Many believe that Aigar was the first of the first gods, given that she drew power from time itself. Feelings about her were historically mixed as she was loved for being a diligent leader and teacher, but could be hated when humans felt robbed of time. Those who loved her, loved her very deeply as she was an ever-present force of protection, wisdom, and guidance. It is said that her love for guiding and protecting humans was what ultimately drove her against Hayat and Casimir. She grieved the loss of the gods that were slaughtered by Casimir and took up arms against them, which is said to have pained her a great deal as she loved them too. Ultimately she lost the final battle, surrendering before more blood would be spilled. !Din The god of faith and religion. He was the last of the first nine gods to appear, as he is the child of another god, Dragomir. Din played a pivotal part in the formation of churches and the worship of gods as human society grew. Humans became so numerous that many gods struggled to find ways to help them or understand their needs. Din provided the connection needed between gods and humans at large. Through him, prayers could reach the gods no matter where they were. His power flowed uniquely through all of Iroda and connected to humans who reached out in faith to their gods. It is said that he was kind and often soft-spoken. He sided against Hayat and Casimir during the war, but his role in any battles is unknown. It is rumored that he did not want to fight against them, so he stayed with his people to assure their safety. !Dragomir The goddess of earth and stone. Specific details about her life and characteristics are coveted secrets held by her remaining followers. It is known that she was the mother of Din and had a strong allegiance to Hayat and Casimir during the war. She was known to wield great power. She was married to the lesser god, Erdem, whom fathered Din. !Shyama The deity of darkness. They are a sibling of Aigar’s, but they were known to not get along. Shyama is said to have loved her sister dearly, but their opposing views on the war drove them apart. Much of their characteristics are unknown as they were mysterious by nature. They taught their followers of the philosophy of darkness. That it was both a time of rest and restlessness, a natural pause for some, but a beginning for others. Shyama favored human partners and was known to love them deeply and to never have forgotten a single one. !Or The god of light. Or is also a brother to Aigar and twin to Shyama. He was known as being very quiet and there are not many known records of him left. He was close with both siblings, but tried to remain impartial between them. It is unknown if he took a side in the war. !Vande The deity of water. Little is remembered about Vande, except for what some would rather forget. They were born of an affair and are half-sibling to Hayat, Casimir, Aigar, Shyama, //and// Or. Despite their origin causing a rift between the gods, they were known to be very deeply loved by all their siblings and are, perhaps, the only deity to achieve such a feat. !Asta The goddess of love. Known the most for being the beloved mother of Hayat and Casimir. She is also the sister-in-law to Erdem and Dragomir. The records of her spouse’s name have been stricken from known history for his betrayal of her. She was well-known for her deeply caring and loving nature. Her husband fathered Vande with the mother of Shyama, Or, and Aigar. It is said that despite this, she forgave him with great mercy, however her children did not. [[The "Lesser" Pantheon]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

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!Irodian Culture *''Language'' The people of Iroda actually do not know where their language originated from. It was written and spoken well before the time of the current age. It is known that it would have stemmed from language in the Old World. *''Name Day'' One of the most important days in the life of the Irodian people is their Name Day. On everyone’s 14th birthday, they may choose to keep their birth name, or choose another that better emulates who they are becoming as they grow. It is just as important as any official holiday and can be celebrated in quiet contemplation or with a feast, depending on preference. Before the night ends, the celebrant stands before their party and introduces themselves with the name they have chosen. Regular birthdays are also celebrated each year as well, usually with a feast. *''Marriage/Partnership'' Marriages and relationships in general in Iroda do not have set formal traditions. Often, those who wish to be committed to each other simply do so without much fanfare. Many partners end up dwelling together and having families without any sort of formal proposals or ceremonies. They just dedicate themselves to each other and live accordingly. It’s up to those in the relationship as to how much formality they want to apply if any – things like asking each other’s parents, having a formal ceremony and feast, and/or exchanging tokens (like rings, but some may get tattoos or even exchange other forms of jewelry). Some partnerships may even live apart with their respective families or choose to move in with one family. More uncommonly, but not unheard of, there are groups who live together for the purpose of having and raising children as a type of large family unit where there is no specific marriage or partnership to each other – only bonds of friendship. They take partners with this understanding, and have little or nothing to do with them after, or they adopt orphaned children. !Major Holidays *''Feast of Seasons'' Every season has a feast or festival to celebrate the season itself, beginning on the 90th day of that season. Observers take a day or two to rest and enjoy the things that the season has brought them. The celebrations are mostly spent amount family members, lounging and eating. Some wealthy families may even celebrate for the last ten entire days of the season. *''The Remembrance of Llyr'' This time set on the 50th day of summer is set aside to remember the late goddess of the sea, Llyr. This is mostly celebrated only in the Auster province, though coastal towns all over Iroda may participate as well. A feast is held for the entire day in her memory. At night, adults are welcomed into the streets for drunken revelry as she was known to relax by becoming drunk with sailors and townsfolk. It was known to be dangerous to drink with her, as it takes a great deal more to make a goddess drunk than it does an ordinary human. It is said that some fools even died trying to keep up with her. *''Festival of Devotion'' A holiday dedicated to connections between people be it family, lovers, or friends held the 55th day of autumn, before most of the harvest and the Harvest Festival at the end of the season. There are no set traditions, but small tokens of affection are often exchanged and towns host games, entertainment, and feasts. Groups most often celebrate together, but it is also known as a time for young lovers to bond or dedicate themselves to each other. *''The Days of Coupling'' A celebration of sex beginning the 38th day of Summer and lasting three days. Though physical relationships can and should be celebrated whenever people want, this celebration began in the northern province and made its way into popularity across the world in short time. Northerners chose this time as it created a natural gap in farming duties brought on by late spring and early summer. It occurs after plants have good roots and need less care but before busy harvest times. It was originally used to time births for spring to help ensure infants had a better chance at surviving. Winters in the north can be very harsh, so this was especially important. Celebrants prepare provisions for three days, and children or other dependents are sent off to be cared for by friends and family who are not participating. At times, gifts are exchanged between those who spend the coupling days together. *''Winter Solstice'' This tradition lasting seven days, beginning on the 43rd of winter, was originally set as a time for those who worshiped gods to remember, thank them, and ask for their support to get through the winter. This tradition was held for hundreds of years, so even after the gods ceased their leadership of humans, it was continued. Instead of thanking and honoring gods, loved ones thank and honor each other for everything they do. Homemade or store-bought gifts may be exchanged as well according to specific traditions in ones family. If provisions allow, some have large dinners and sometimes celebrate with friends. The whole seven days are not always observed, but many use it as a time to simply relax or even enjoy winter activities. A few households still use the time to honor their chosen gods. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<div class="centered-image"> <<include "map pic">> </div> <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">Credits and Shout-Outs</div></h1> </body> </html> <</nobr>> Without the resources and people listed below, I would be totally lost. !Twine Template: Vahnya Twine Template ~ Vahnya's template taught me quite a lot as a complete Twine newbie and it has been a joy to work with. https://vahnya.itch.io/ !Twine Dialog Tag Template: a.w. morgan Twine/Sugarcube 2 Template https://awmorgan.itch.io/ !Looking Macros: Mistyrious https://mistyriousness.itch.io/ !Map Maker: https://inkarnate.com !Graphics: designed with https://www.canva.com/ (one day, I will try the pro version and remove the watermarks) !Song Lyrics: Joreph https://linktr.ee/Joreph89 *Endless encouragement, friendship, and the one who introduced me to all this: Syryh *Inspiration, support, and a great ass: My Husband <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">The Lesser Gods</div></h1> </body> </html> <</nobr>> Despite the colloquial title, the lesser gods were not always lesser in power or following, they simply came from a different generation of gods, the first of which were children of or otherwise related to the first nine gods. The origins or parentage of most of this branch of the pantheon is unknown to written history. Through their creation, it became known that some element of godhood was hereditary and it is assumed it has something to do with how magic tends to follow a bloodline. This was the largest group of gods, the numbers they reached are unknown to history and a great many died during the war. A majority of the lesser gods were against Hayat and Casimir during the war, wanting to maintain leadership over humans. It is from this generation of gods that most demigods sprung and the one laden with a great deal of abuse of the power they held over humans. The list below is not exhaustive, but contains the most well-known of this branch of the pantheon. !Valko The god of the hunt and predators. This role was originally held by Valko with his six siblings; however, all his siblings died in the war – specifically murdered by the god, Ola. It is said that because Valko and his siblings sided with Casimir, that the war was won. Valko is a fierce warrior whose power is akin to Casimir's. He is a terrifying force on and off the battlefield. He has had many spouses over his long life, most of which have been human followers. !Ola The god of commerce, who still has many followers despite his reputation being very poor. Known as a very shrewd and cunning man, he established an economy and trade routes for humans. He is credited for connecting the most distant regions with each other. His widely-known cruelty to humans was a driving force in Hayat’s decision to put a stop to the influence of gods. He was brutally killed by Valko as revenge for his murdered family. Most stories about this say that Valko tortured and dismembered Ola with his bare hands. !Theresa The goddess of the harvest. Well-loved for her lively and bold spirit, she remains a favored goddess even today. She was opposed to the war, but took a stance against Hayat and Casimir. It is unknown if she ever participated in the effort to stop Hayat. She was Valko’s first wife and they had three children together, only one of which remains today, Sollemne. No one knows what became of her after the war. !Sollemne The goddess of celebration, also called Sol. Much like her mother, Sollemne remains highly regarded. She is still known to be fun-loving, bold, sometimes very drunk. She is one of few gods that people today know for sure roams Iroda as she does not bother to hide who or what she is. She was a powerful force in the war and fought side by side with Valko. It is rumored that she battled with her mother as well. It is known for sure that she often fights with Valko due to family disputes. !Dren The god of the herd and prey animals and counterpart to Valko. Not much is widely known about the kind of person Dren was other than being noted as clever and mischievous. Most of what is written about him today is that he was frequently a thorn in Valko’s side. His part in the war is unknown, and it is rumored that he also still wanders Iroda, often seen with Sollemne. !Erdem The god of knowledge. He was known for keeping to himself and being the husband of Dragomir and father of Din. He stayed completely neutral during the god wars, but it has been rumored that he was relieved when Hayat and Casimir won as he was eager to retire from his duties. !The Goddesses of Seasons Quadruplet sisters who inherited the catalysts of spring (Bahar), summer (Vera), autumn (Aki), and winter (Talvi). They are closely related to Theresa, but most texts do not directly address how. The war divided the once-close siblings as Bahar and Talvi took sides with Hayat, and Vera and Aki sided against. !The Deities of the Stars A group of found-family that are the only known deities to require others to form what is essentially a single, but very powerful, god. Their origins are unclear and rumors say that they were all rejected children from other gods as there was no magic within them individually. When they began to find each other, power between them suddenly grew and they formed deep emotional bonds. They took no sides in the war as they were unwilling to ever part from each other, though one of them was killed regardless. It is said that their grief was so profound over the loss of one of their own that they out-shined the sun and moon for five days. Not all their names are known and it is also unknown just how many they number. Those named in manuscripts are: Huang, Bituin, Najm, Argus, Stelara, Izar, Gerelt, Hoshi, Dara, and Asterius. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

[[Create your character|E1.1]]

Oswin straps the last of the supplies into Flit's saddlebags. He sighs, wondering again if he's doing the right thing. At least tonight he'll be able to apologize to $mc for his immaturity spanning…an entire decade. //Does a childhood memento really make up for how difficult I've been? I'm an idiot…// He scoffs at his own audacity and Flit nuzzles her face into his chest. She always seems to know when he's particularly agitated. "Oswin!" cries a shrill voice. //Fuck me, not this idiot again.// Oswin pretends to not hear the man as he fiddles with Flit's bridle. "Ooooswin!" A hand slaps his shoulder, so Oswin turns. "Hello, Ves. What are you up to?" Ves throws his long brown hair over his shoulder, fluttering his lashes over bright green eyes and tilting his head to show off an over-pronounced smile. "Oh I just wanted to ask you to have a drink with me! Kanta says you're leaving town for a while." "Sorry, I can't tonight. I need to check supplies and then I'm meeting with $mc." The smile dampens a moment. "//Oh//. Well, do you really have the time for such nonsense? Isn't it a bit of a waste? You're leaving anyway." "No, I must talk with $himher before I leave." "Your dedication is one of the many things I love about you, but you have to admit things with you and the little Northbreaker kid have been strange for a long time. Might just be easier to just cut your losses." "You've known me for a long time, I don't do anything the easy way. I want to make amends with $mc before I leave, at least try." "Oswin…" Ves places his hands on his hips, but gives that same too-casual smile. "I only press because I care. $mc is an odd one, something obviously isn't right with $himher. So what if you were friends as kids? Friends come and go. We also basically grew up together, and I want to be your friend //now//. I don't know why exactly you're so hung up on $mc, but I can give you //many// reasons to forget about $himher. You may as well, who knows how long $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>have<<else>>has<</if>> left anyway?" Oswin stares at Ves, the idiot who never cared for Lakota or $mc, teasing them for years, but has pestered him like a particularly large housefly for just as long. //I really hate his smug face.// Oswin's eye twitches. He's leaving anyway, why hold back anymore? "Have you ever considered that the insincere way you smile could be fixed with a broken jaw?" The smile finally melts away. "What did you just say to me?" "I implied that if you kept running your mouth, I-will-break-your-jaw. You do not fool me, Ves, you never have. I knocked you out before when we were kids, I will do it again. Leave me alone – I am not interested. Keep $mc's name out of your mouth as well." Ves sneers. "Fine! I'm sick of trying to coax your attention anyway. You're much too pathetic – so hung up on a lost cause who will never lo-" Dov suddenly appears behind Ves. "You've said ''enough''," he concludes firmly, the deep timber of his voice making Ves shrink back. The housefly buzzes away quickly, not even sparing a glance back to Oswin. "Thank you," he says, turning his gaze down. A large hand gently pats his back. "Get yer horse and walk with us a bit." [[Oswin follows obediently.|C.1]]

Your taken name is: <<textbox "$mc" "Name" "E1.2">>Northbreaker.” <span id="r1" class="look"><<link "Click to show suggestion list.">><<reveal "r1" "Choose Wisely" "Name Bank">><</link>></span>

* -''Layla'': “night” -''Chan'': “moon” -''Dorchae'': “dark” -''Katar'': “summit” -''Arwa'': “mountain goat” -''Volkan'': “volcano” -''Rotem'': “desert plant, or ‘to bind’” -''Neta'': “plant” -''Carmi'': “vine” -''Elowen'': “elm tree” -''Mu'': “tree, wood” -''Sylvan'': “wood, forest” -''Boran'': “thunderstorm” -''Raiden'': "thunder/lightning" -''Audra'': “storm” -''Ra'': “sun, day” -''Sole'': “sun” -''Danica'': “morning star” -''Noodles'': “Noodles”

*Eyes: <<listbox "$eyecolor" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "black">> <<option "hazel">> <<option "green">> <<option "blue">> <<option "amber">> <<option "grey">> <<option "purple">> <</listbox>> *Skin: <<listbox "$skin" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "fawn">> <<option "black">> <<option "beige">> <<option "pink">> <<option "ochre">> <<option "umber">> <<option "white">> <</listbox>> *Hair Color: <<listbox "$haircolor" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "black">> <<option "blond">> <<option "red">> <<option "ginger">> <<option "auburn">> <<option "white">> <</listbox>> Has strain from your condition caused your hair to grey prematurely? <<listbox "$greyhair">> <<option 'no'>> <<option 'yes'>> <</listbox>> If yes, are you okay with your grey hair? <<listbox "$greyokay">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'yes'>> <<option 'no'>> <</listbox>> *Hair Length: <<listbox "$hairlength" autoselect>> <<option "very long">> <<option "long">> <<option "shoulder length">> <<option "chin length">> <<option "short">> <<option "very short">> <</listbox>> *Hair texture: <<listbox "$hairtexture" autoselect>> <<option "tightly curled">> <<option "loosely curled">> <<option "wavy">> <<option "straight">> <<option "frizzy">> <</listbox>> *Body Type <<listbox "$bodytype" autoselect>> <<option "broad and sturdy">> <<option "athletic and agile">> <<option "curvy">> <<option "toned and lean">> <<option "slender">> <<option "voluptuous">> <</listbox>> *Height <<listbox "$height" autoselect>> <<option "verytall">> <<option "tall">> <<option "average">> <<option "short">> <</listbox>> *Pronouns: <<listbox "$pronouns">> <<option 'she'>> <<option 'he'>> <<option 'they'>> <</listbox>> [[Continue|E1.3]]

<<nobr>> <<if $pronouns is 'she'>> <<set $heshe to 'she'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $hisher to 'her'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $himher to 'her'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $hishers to 'hers'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $manwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $sondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<set $boygirl to 'girl'>> <<elseif $pronouns is 'he'>> <<set $heshe to 'he'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $hisher to 'his'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $himher to 'him'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $hishers to 'his'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $manwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $sondtrchild to 'son'>> <<set $boygirl to 'boy'>> <<elseif $pronouns is 'they'>> <<set $heshe to 'they'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>> <<set $hisher to 'their'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'Their'>> <<set $himher to 'them'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>> <<set $hishers to 'theirs'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'themselves'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themselves'>> <<set $manwoperson to 'person'>> <<set $sondtrchild to 'child'>> <<set $boygirl to 'kid'>> <</if>> <</nobr>> *Personality: Are you more reserved or outgoing? <<listbox "$ReservedOutgoing">> <<option 'reserved'>> <<option 'outgoing'>> <</listbox>> Are you more gentle or assertive? <<listbox "$GentleAssertive">> <<option 'gentle'>> <<option 'assertive'>> <</listbox>> Are you more serious or playful? <<listbox "$SeriousPlayful">> <<option 'serious'>> <<option 'playful'>> <</listbox>> Do you more reckless or cautious? <<listbox "$RecklessCautious">> <<option 'reckless'>> <<option 'cautious'>> <</listbox>> If flirting, are you more bashful or bold? <<listbox "$BoldflirtShyflirt">> <<option 'bold'>> <<option 'shy'>> <</listbox>> [[Continue|E1.4]]

*Life & Style What is your profession? <<listbox "$interest" autoselect>> <<option 'logger'>> <<option 'carpenter'>> <<option 'swordsman'>> <<option 'archer'>> <<option 'healer'>> <<option 'trader'>> <<option 'cook'>> <</listbox>> What was your favorite treasure growing up? <<listbox "$favgift">> <<option 'earring'>> <<option 'crystals'>> <<option 'rat'>> <<option 'snail'>> <<option 'metal'>> <</listbox>> What is your hobby? <<listbox "$hobby">> <<option 'singing'>> <<option 'drawing'>> <<option 'sculpting'>> <<option 'storytelling'>> <<option 'whittling'>> <<option 'needlework'>> <</listbox>> Do you have any facial hair? <<listbox "$facialhair">> <<option 'no'>> <<option 'yes'>> <</listbox>> Do you have tattoos? <<listbox "$tattoos">> <<option 'no'>> <<option 'yes'>> <</listbox>> Do you wear earrings? <<listbox "$earrings">> <<option 'no'>> <<option 'yes'>> <</listbox>> Do you wear necklaces? <<listbox "$necklaces">> <<option 'no'>> <<option 'yes'>> <</listbox>> Do you wear bracelets? <<listbox "$bracelets">> <<option 'no'>> <<option 'yes'>> <</listbox>> What's your clothing style? <<listbox "$clothing">> <<option 'comfortable'>> <<option 'regular'>> <<option 'austere'>> <<option 'colorful'>> <<option 'revealing'>> <</listbox>> *What is your curse mark? <<include "treeimage">> [[A mighty tree.|E1.4a]] <<include "sunmark">> [[A rising sun.|E1.4b]] <<include "stormmark">> [[A building storm.|E1.4c]] <<include "plantmark">> [[Encroaching vines.|E1.4d]] <<include "nightmark">> [[Nightfall.|E1.4e]] <<include "mountmark">> [[A mountain.|E1.4f]]

<<set $mark to 'tree'>> *Thoughts and Feelings How did you internalize your birth mother's death? <<listbox "$mommyissues">> <<option 'sadness'>> <<option 'anger'>> <<option 'thankfulness'>> <<option 'guilt'>> <<option 'understanding'>> <</listbox>> What is your aspiration for the year? <<listbox "$goal">> <<option 'love'>> <<option 'friendship'>> <<option 'profession'>> <<option 'answers'>> <<option 'independence'>> <</listbox>> How do you feel about Oswin? <<listbox "$Ofeelings">> <<option 'neutral'>> <<option 'romantic'>> <<option 'friendly'>> <<option 'distant'>> <</listbox>> If you have romantic feelings toward Oswin, is it a recent development or have you felt this way for a long time? <<listbox "$Ofeelingstime">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'recent'>> <<option 'longer'>> <</listbox>> [[To the story…|Story Selection]]

<<set $mark to 'sun'>> *Thoughts and Feelings How did you internalize your birth mother's death? <<listbox "$mommyissues">> <<option 'sadness'>> <<option 'anger'>> <<option 'thankfulness'>> <<option 'guilt'>> <<option 'understanding'>> <</listbox>> What is your aspiration for the year? <<listbox "$goal">> <<option 'love'>> <<option 'friendship'>> <<option 'profession'>> <<option 'answers'>> <<option 'independence'>> <</listbox>> How do you feel about Oswin? <<listbox "$Ofeelings">> <<option 'neutral'>> <<option 'romantic'>> <<option 'friendly'>> <<option 'distant'>> <</listbox>> If you have romantic feelings toward Oswin, is it a recent development or have you felt this way for a long time? <<listbox "$Ofeelingstime">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'recent'>> <<option 'longer'>> <</listbox>> [[To the story…|Story Selection]]

<<set $mark to 'storm'>> *Thoughts and Feelings How did you internalize your birth mother's death? <<listbox "$mommyissues">> <<option 'sadness'>> <<option 'anger'>> <<option 'thankfulness'>> <<option 'guilt'>> <<option 'understanding'>> <</listbox>> What is your aspiration for the year? <<listbox "$goal">> <<option 'love'>> <<option 'friendship'>> <<option 'profession'>> <<option 'answers'>> <<option 'independence'>> <</listbox>> How do you feel about Oswin? <<listbox "$Ofeelings">> <<option 'neutral'>> <<option 'romantic'>> <<option 'friendly'>> <<option 'distant'>> <</listbox>> If you have romantic feelings toward Oswin, is it a recent development or have you felt this way for a long time? <<listbox "$Ofeelingstime">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'recent'>> <<option 'longer'>> <</listbox>> [[To the story…|Story Selection]]

<<set $mark to 'plant'>> *Thoughts and Feelings How did you internalize your birth mother's death? <<listbox "$mommyissues">> <<option 'sadness'>> <<option 'anger'>> <<option 'thankfulness'>> <<option 'guilt'>> <<option 'understanding'>> <</listbox>> What is your aspiration for the year? <<listbox "$goal">> <<option 'love'>> <<option 'friendship'>> <<option 'profession'>> <<option 'answers'>> <<option 'independence'>> <</listbox>> How do you feel about Oswin? <<listbox "$Ofeelings">> <<option 'neutral'>> <<option 'romantic'>> <<option 'friendly'>> <<option 'distant'>> <</listbox>> If you have romantic feelings toward Oswin, is it a recent development or have you felt this way for a long time? <<listbox "$Ofeelingstime">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'recent'>> <<option 'longer'>> <</listbox>> [[To the story…|Story Selection]]

<<set $mark to 'night'>> *Thoughts and Feelings How did you internalize your birth mother's death? <<listbox "$mommyissues">> <<option 'sadness'>> <<option 'anger'>> <<option 'thankfulness'>> <<option 'guilt'>> <<option 'understanding'>> <</listbox>> What is your aspiration for the year? <<listbox "$goal">> <<option 'love'>> <<option 'friendship'>> <<option 'profession'>> <<option 'answers'>> <<option 'independence'>> <</listbox>> How do you feel about Oswin? <<listbox "$Ofeelings">> <<option 'neutral'>> <<option 'romantic'>> <<option 'friendly'>> <<option 'distant'>> <</listbox>> If you have romantic feelings toward Oswin, is it a recent development or have you felt this way for a long time? <<listbox "$Ofeelingstime">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'recent'>> <<option 'longer'>> <</listbox>> [[To the story…|Story Selection]]

<<set $mark to 'mountain'>> *Thoughts and Feelings How did you internalize your birth mother's death? <<listbox "$mommyissues">> <<option 'sadness'>> <<option 'anger'>> <<option 'thankfulness'>> <<option 'guilt'>> <<option 'understanding'>> <</listbox>> What is your aspiration for the year? <<listbox "$goal">> <<option 'love'>> <<option 'friendship'>> <<option 'profession'>> <<option 'answers'>> <<option 'independence'>> <</listbox>> How do you feel about Oswin? <<listbox "$Ofeelings">> <<option 'neutral'>> <<option 'romantic'>> <<option 'friendly'>> <<option 'distant'>> <</listbox>> If you have romantic feelings toward Oswin, is it a recent development or have you felt this way for a long time? <<listbox "$Ofeelingstime">> <<option 'null'>> <<option 'recent'>> <<option 'longer'>> <</listbox>> [[To the story…|Story Selection]]

[[The Cursed Birthday]] {Mostly Oswin's perspective} *Warnings: blood, depictions of violent illness, brief mention of vomit, distraught loved ones, mention of a broken bone

Flit follows behind, not even needing to be led. Oswin smirks at $mc's parents. Kip is reclined back in a two-wheeled cart, surrounded by pelts, as their little donkey pulls him. He waves at the townspeople, acting like some pompous dignitary, drawing laughter as they make their way out of town. Dov walks on the other side of the cart in the easy silence he usually carries. "How's the leg?" Oswin asks Kip. "Broken." Kip laughs. Oswin sighs, but still smiles. //<<if $SeriousPlayful is 'serious'>>I love how different they can be.<<else>>It's cute how alike they are.<</if>>// "So, you're coming to $mc's feast tonight, right?" Kip asks suddenly. He clears his throat. "Um no…but I will visit late and drop off my gift. I wanted to have…have //that// talk before I leave." Dov hums, and Oswin notes that his brown eyes shift to his wagon-bound partner. Kip turns to Oswin then. "No, I think you should come. Head over with us now. It'll be a bit before the feast starts, have your chat and see how it goes. You can leave if $mc wants you to." "I…I appreciate the offer, but I do need to make sure I'm prepared-" "But what if you didn't need to prepare?" Kip leans over and gives Oswin an easy smile. "<<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>Who knows what might happen if you talk now. Maybe you'll find a reason to stay and you won't need to pack.<<else>>Perhaps it won't be as bad as you fear?<</if>>" //Ugh, he's doing it again, I can't say no.// "Fine. Fine, I'll try. But…if it doesn't go well…" Dov interrupts. "You won't ruin our $sondtrchild's birthday. $capitalheshe<<if $pronouns is 'they'>>'ve<<else>> has<</if>> been through worse. Nothin' we can't fix." Oswin is quietly moved by Dov's encouragement. He's always been a little intimidated by the man, so it feels particularly special. //They keep giving me hope…I don't know if I should be glad for it or not.// The three continue on their way in relative silence. [[Until they reach the house.|C.2]]

"I'll help Kip inside and then see to your donkey," Oswin offers as they all arrive. "I'll put Flit in the barn for now too." Dov nods. "Appreciate that. Sprout must be in already…I'm gonna to wish $himher a happy birthday." He looks at the door and smiles. Oswin shares a look with Kip as Dov walks through the door. Kip chuckles as Oswin fishes him out of the wagon, struggling a bit more than Dov would, but he seems to enjoy that. Suddenly the tremendous thunder of Dov's voice echos from inside. "$mc!" "Go!" Kip commands. Oswin obeys immediately, rushing through the door and all the way back to the den. [[The world feels as though it crumbles.|C.3]]

Everything happens in a blink, but every moment burns into Oswin's mind. Dov looms over the quivering body of $mc, sitting $himher on $hisher side, prying $mc's mouth open to clear the airway. "$capitalheshe'<<if $pronouns is 'they'>>re<<else>>s<</if>> not breathing!" Blood is everywhere. A pool of sick as well, but mostly blood. It runs down the front of $mc's clothes, <<if $clothing is 'comfortable'>>the soft fabrics saturated so much that they cling<<elseif $clothing is 'regular'>>the fabric now dyed red<<elseif $clothing is 'austere'>>the neatly pressed fabric ruined by red<<elseif $clothing is 'colorful'>>the bright and colorful patterns corrupted<<elseif $clothing is 'revealing'>>soaking both cloth and painting exposed skin in red<</if>>. $capitalhisher limbs twitch as the muscles struggle to not die. $mc gargles on blood while Dov still struggles to clear an airway. Kip rushes in on his splinted leg, hitting the floor hard has he tries to help save his $sondtrchild. Oswin can't do anything here either. He's…useless. But there is one thing. "I'll get help!" he yells, rushing from the house. He jumps into the saddle and Flit is off even before he is fully seated. He must find his father. [[...Back at the house.|C.4]]

"Just breathe, just breathe little one," Dov cries as the clot of blood finally leaves $mc's throat. $capitalheshe finally <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>take<<else>>takes<</if>> a gargled breath which ends in a cough. $mc struggles, gasping and then coughing up more blood. "Why is there so much blood!?" Kip sobs as he smooths $mc's hair. "My baby…" "Sprout," Dov says. "Hang on, keep breathin'. Oswin went for help, It'll be okay." Kip continues to cry, getting near hysterical with each breath. Dov knows there is nothing he can do to console his husband, tears stream down his own face as he can only watch his precious $sondtrchild struggle to live…on $hisher birthday of all days. "Please…if anyone still listens, please save my baby…please!" Kip wails, holding $mc in his arms. "Have mercy! Please, please don’t take my $sondtrchild!" Dov holds them both in his big arms, watching his little one's face, terrified it will be the last time he will behold it. Will he see that smile again? Will he gaze upon their $eyecolor eyes ever again? It feels like just the other day $mc was no bigger than his forearm. They're supposed to have so much more time together. It can't come to this. The front door opens and a rush of footsteps approaches. Oswin has returned with Kavi in tow. The healer wastes no time in beginning his examination, moving $mc to the couch. Dov gets behind to hold $himher up and ensure $hisher airway stays clear. Kavi presses and pokes around on $mc, somehow encouraging $himher to cough up another clot of blood to make $himher breathe a little easier. He burns some sort of herb along with a bit of the creeping sprout. Kip and Dov watch on, knowing that these things never seem to help much, but they both hold on to hope that it provides any relief at all. Finally, $mc's breathing eases. [[The room is calm.|C.5]]

Oswin leans his back against the cold stone of the hearth. It's never been this bad before. His stomach rolls when he glimpses the blood. It's soaked into the floor and stains Kip and Dov's clothing. $mc's fingers twitch as $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>sleep<<else>>sleeps<</if>>. His father and mother speak quietly in the corner of the room, Oswin knows they are lost as to what to do, but they'll try everything they can. His mother runs her hands down her face, whisking away streams of tears before she approaches him. "Love, I need to check Willow," she says. "She's not been well, so I've given your father some ideas on what to try next. Once I'm sure Willow is stable, I will bring my muscle rub for when $mc wakes. $capitalhisher muscles are still spasming and I imagine the poor lamb will be in a lot of pain in the days to come." Oswin nods, listlessly. "I'll stay." Mother places her hands on Oswin's face. Her big brown eyes and unruly golden hair make him forget his troubles just for a moment. "My sweet boy, we'll do everything we can. Remember, we keep fighting…" "'Til the end," Oswin finishes. In unison, Oswin hears both Dov and Kip say $mc's name. He hurries, getting closer, but keeping a respectful distance. "Quickly, some water," Kip requests. Kavi brings a cup as Dov helps $mc sit up. Oswin bites his lip and tamps down the urge to rush to $hisher side. His mother places a gentle hand to his back. His eyes begin to burn with tears as he sees how badly $mc shakes, not even able to hold the cup. $capitalhisher eyes dart around, but the look on $hisher face is vacant, like $heshe<<if $pronouns is 'they'>>'re not<<else>>'s not<</if>> really seeing anything. $mc struggles to speak, the words are weak and gargled, $hisher jaw not cooperating. Oswin pushes down his tears as his oldest friend whimpers trying to speak. //This isn't fair. This isn't fair!// The room goes silent as $mc struggles and manages a few strained words… ''"Not"'' ''"Done"'' "Not…done?" Kip repeats as he looks forlornly at Dov. "Not done…it's not done…" "Kavi!" Dov erupts. Oswin rushes forward waiting for any sort of instruction from his father or mother, he sees tears in $mc's eyes just before $heshe screams. The sound is horrific – full of agony and sorrow. $mc begins to thrash violently and Dov struggles to keep $himher contained. "It burns! It burns!" $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>wail<<else>>wails<</if>>. “Keep holding $himher!” Oswin's father commands as he tries to find the source of such pain. Over and over, $mc screams as if $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> being flayed alive. Again, Oswin despairs that he can only watch the suffering and do nothing. He can do nothing but wait for someone to call out an order to him – to fetch something, move something, find someone. But he won't leave. He'll wait for those orders. Dov, as strong as he is, almost can't contain his thrashing $sondtrchild as $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>attempt<<else>>attempts<</if>> to claw at $hisher stomach. $mc arches $hisher back up off the couch and freezes, mouth open in a horrible silent scream, eyes wide open but still somehow lifeless. //Is this a demon? Could it be? What else would do this? I can't just watch this any longer!// His father tears $mc clothing, revealing the <<if $bodytype is "broad and sturdy">>hard plains of $hisher abdomen<<elseif $bodytype is "athletic and agile">>firm plains of $hisher abdomen<<elseif $bodytype is "curvy">>supple plains of $hisher abdomen<<elseif $bodytype is "toned and lean">>firm plains of $hisher abdomen<<elseif $bodytype is "slender">>tight plains of $hisher abdomen<<elseif $bodytype is "voluptuous">>supple plains of $hisher abdomen<</if>>. His father gasps. “What...what is this…” Oswin watches as dark lines are etched into $mc's skin – like a brand. <<if $mark is 'tree'>>A great tree.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>A bright orb surrounded by two dark ones.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>Strange lines zigzagging with odd symbols.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>Vines twisted around a bizarre symbol.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>What may be a fallen star or the crest of a moon.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>Strange shapes – a diamond or triangles crowned with an orb.<</if>> Kip's breath stutters. “Kavi...what is happening to our Sprout? What is this?” He sounds bereft and confused. "Did someone //do// this to $himher!?" The lines take shape like a tattoo, until a full picture is formed… His father answers, "No...no, it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak. This. This is no illness." Dov cries out as he holds $mc, $hisher body settling as consciousness fades completely. Kip sinks his head into his hands, gripping his hair. Oswin wants so badly to comfort them, but he knows there is little he can do to make it better. //I'll be here, $mc, 'till the end.// [[Now that the worst has gone, Oswin can be of help.|C.6]]

The first thing he notices is Kip's leg. Oswin is mortified to see the broken leg not only out of the splint, but clearly broken again. The bone is pressed against the flesh, creating a jarring lump in the middle of his leg, the swelling is already bad. Oswin rallies his parents quietly and points to it, they nod. "Kip," Oswin says gently. "We must set your leg again before it is too late." The man that he has always known to never give up simply shrugs. "Just cut it off as far as I care," he replies in a whisper. Dov rises from the couch, laying $mc down before grabbing a blanket from the back of another chair and draping it over $himher. He sniffles and wipes his eyes. "Boy's right, love. $mc will have a fit when $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>wake<<else>>wakes<</if>> and yer missin' a leg." His father nods. "We can do it right here." Kip is laid out on the floor, nestled in Dov's lap for both comfort and restraint, his eyes look lost and he shows no anxiety about the tremendous pain he will soon be in. This Oswin can help with, which he is loath to do, but setting a bone like this requires strength and accuracy, which he can easily lend his tired father. With guidance from his parents, Oswin helps snap the bone back in, which finally rouses a reaction from Kip who loses consciousness. No one tries to rouse him as they all patch up the leg and secure the splint. Oswin's mother finally leaves to check Willow, and returns a while later with a good report, asking her son to wait until later to tell Lakota what happened. Dov takes $mc up to $hisher bedroom after Kip awakens, and it feels as though a discussion needs to happen.. Kip's face is slack and tired as he sits at $mc's bedside, holding $hisher limp hand. "My husband…I know you will protest, but this…this is magic. The only way to fight magic is with magic." Dov sighs and shakes his head. "Let's talk of this later. You must rest first and clear your mind." "He's right, hun," Oswin's mother adds, looking at Dov. "We can help find you someone trustworthy to put your worries at ease." The large man turns away. "Like it or not, this is going to be the best solution," she continues. "Herbs, ointments, and massage won't cure this. If it //were// an illness, it may not even be curable at all, but with magic something can be done either way." Dov nods in acknowledgment, but doesn't add anything. An awkward quiet settles over the room. The discussion is flat, everyone is tired and anxious. No plans will come from this. "You should both rest," Oswin says to $mc's parents. "I will stay until you have slept a while." Kip shakes his head. "I won't leave, but you are welcome to the guest room." "I will stay with 'em," Dov adds. Oswin and his parents quietly leave the room. He sees his mother and father out, sharing a long look with his mother first, but Oswin stays. Should $mc's parents need to rest, he wants to be there. Long sleepless nights are a familiar enemy to him after all. He stares toward the den. [[There's work to be done.|C.7]]

It didn't take Oswin long to find a bucket and brush. He cannot abide the blood. It is a stain, a horrible reminder that must be scrubbed away. He hates blood. The vomit cleaned easily with the first bucket of water. The blood is more stubborn and he's on his fourth bucket and second brush. The red stain is deep, seeped deep inside the boards. Oswin's own hands crack and bleed now, adding to the mess. He sobs at the frothy pink of the blood rinsed with water and soap. He doesn't know how long he's been doing this yet, but the orange hue of the rising sun is just peeking through the windows. Flashes of the previous night fill his mind. He hears $mc screaming in agony, smells the fresh blood – this blood that now coats his hands. His stomach lurches and he runs outside, falling to his knees to throw up. He wails with sorrow each time he heaves until there's nothing left. He spits the taste of bile from his mouth. Oswin stumbles toward the road, tears dripping down his face as hopelessness threatens to overtake him. "I'd do anything to trade places with you...You do not deserve this. You have never deserved such suffering. If it must be anyone, it should be me." He falls to his knees in the middle of the deserted road. "If there are any gods left in the world, please heed me, please grant me this mercy and let it be me instead…let it be me." He weeps. A gentle hand runs through his hair, and he lifts his face to find his mother. "Mama…Mama!" He bawls, diving into his mother's arms. She holds him readily, stroking his hair like she has ever since he was a child as his tears soak through her blue apron. "Shh, shh, I'm here my babe. I'm here. We're going to solve this. We won't take no for an answer." "What if we can't? Mama, there's so much I haven't said! I've waited too long. I have to tell $himher that I'm sorry." "Then you give this all you got. Don't be thinking about your regrets right now – you don't get to have regrets when that kid is up in that bed fighting to survive. If you have regrets now it's like giving up. You fight Oswin Twinflower. You get up. And when you think you can't get up for yourself, you get up for that kid instead. //'Til the end//." He nods. "I will. I'll do it for $mc." "I've talked to the girls about this, and they may be able to help, but I need to get the Northbreakers to agree. You should try to rest." She gently dabs his eyes with her apron. Oswin shakes his head. "I can't do that now. I could never sleep. I don't think I…" She nods. "Alright, if you're going to be up and awake anyway, make yourself useful and help them. Get their firewood, draw water, wash dishes, cook. Whatever they need, you do it." "Yes, Mama." "And then you rest – do you hear? Tonight you sleep. You rest, or so help me, I will slip something in your tea and make you." She kisses the top of his head. "And if that doesn't work, I'll bop you on the head – with love, of course," she says sweetly. [[Oswin knows she isn't lying.|C.8]]

Just as his mother ordered, Oswin makes himself useful. He does everything for Kip and Dov so they do not need to leave $mc's room for long. Eventually, Kip is given a draught to make him sleep, but he still stays at $mc's bedside. The Northbreakers can't bring themselves to eat much, but Oswin ensures they drink broth and have bread and porridge. He does all the chores for the farm that day as well. When night comes…he's afraid to sleep, but his mother brings tonics, insisting that she will watch over $mc while everyone rests. In the days that follow, Oswin practically lives at the Northbreaker homestead. He keeps watch over $mc in turn with his father and mother, Kip and Dov. He tells Lakota little of what all transpired in what he knows is a misguided attempt to keep his little brother's mind at ease. With Willow in danger of losing the twins, he doesn't want to frighten him, but he knows Lakota will eventually find out and become angry about the secrecy. It will be fine though, and this way Oswin can…be there for $mc. Be the friend he should have been in the last ten years. He knows that he already missed the window for his trip to Lale to meet and guide the Thanes to Auster province. Oswin spends time thinking about it, 'a missed opportunity,' most would say. But he doesn't really feel like he's missed out. The longer he sits next to $mc's bedside, waiting for $himher to wake up, the more he realizes that 'missing out' on that job has been his one relief through all of this. Eventually, $mc comes to awareness. $capitalhisher progress is slow but steady. Sometimes $hisher eyes are open, but do not seem to see. Oswin watches the $eyecolor orbs as $mc slowly blinks. He talks to $himher even though he's not certain $heshe can hear him. Sometimes, $mc mumbles things but they're not always coherent words. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>Though, his own name passes through $mc's lips often, giving him hope that he prays is not false.<<else>>Sometimes he can tell that $mc talks of <<if $interest is 'logger'>>$hisher axe, or starts recounting orders for lumber.<<elseif $interest is 'carpenter'>>chisels and the mounting list of orders for $hisher fine furniture.<<elseif $interest is 'swordsman'>>$hisher sword, the names of the fellow guardsmen and the occasional command to 'break it up' dribbling out.<<elseif $interest is 'archer'>>$hisher bow and the speed and direction of the wind, along with the names of the other guard members<<elseif $interest is 'healer'>>herbs and tonics, reciting what Oswin thinks are recipes or perhaps grocery lists.<<elseif $interest is 'trader'>>numbers, making Oswin's head spin as $mc rattles on about figures, doing math even unconsciously.<<elseif $interest is 'cook'>>something called 'lamb sauce' and sharpening $hisher knives.<</if>><</if>> Oswin, his parents, and the Northbreakers take care of $mc, but they talk little outside of what is necessary. Everyone feels the tremendous weight of what occurred and everyone is equally at a loss. No one wants to talk of the mark that burned itself into $mc's flesh. They all saw it, but it seems no one wants to acknowledge the reality of it, or the questions it brings. It looked just like a tattoo to Oswin.<<if $tattoos is 'yes'>> It appeared very similar to the ones $mc already has.<</if>> Though no one wants to discuss it, Oswin's mind spins with what it could mean. As far as he knows, $mc has no magic affiliation. But, everyone has secrets, just like his own sisters. //Why now? Perhaps $mc's birth-parents were mages. Could they have done something foolish or even cruel that led to this? Gods cannot hurt anyone any longer but maybe they can still help people.// A few mages have crossed paths with Oswin in his years traveling. None of them seemed particularly powerful, though they sometimes acted like it – as if magic made them superior somehow… Every improvement by $mc is celebrated. Each day, $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> able to do more for longer. By the seventh day of recovery, $mc is able to stand with help from Dov. The first steps are shaky, but $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>power<<else>>powers<</if>> through them <<if $SeriousPlayful is 'serious'>>with $hisher trademark determination, but with a looming sullenness.<<else>>with the usual flair for jokes, even if they're tinged with stress.<</if>> $capitalheshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>press<<else>>presses<</if>> on each day until $heshe can walk on $hisher own. The better $mc gets, the more Oswin begins to give $himher more privacy with $hisher family. He still keeps close to the house, returning to his own home only to sleep. He takes on $mc's normal chores and helps Dov with meals. [[It seems like things might return to normal again.|C.9]]

Dov comes out of the house as Oswin sits with Kip on the porch. "Sprout's in the bath. Seems to be movin' well today." Kip smiles, looking relieved, but still exhausted. Sleep has not been easy for him. Oswin has kept him company through a few nights where anxiety kept them both awake. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>It helped Kip to tell Oswin stories about $mc, things that were missed in the years Oswin had distanced himself. They managed to laugh a little and shed a few tears too. Kip spoke at length about how he never imagined being a father when he was young, that he was always too absorbed with himself to nurture anyone. Dov helped open up his heart, and then somehow – after parenthood fell into his lap, after he saw the sweet $eyecolor eyes of a kid who needed him – it felt like it was what he was meant to be.<<else>>It helped Kip to reminisce about $mc and speak of old times when little Ravinder, Aster, and Yarrow were running around. He smiled with tears in his eyes as he spoke of how proud Kip was of each of them for growing up so well.<</if>> Through the last ten days, Kip was hanging on just for $mc, but taking poor care of his own needs and it was becoming more evident. Dov places a large hand on Oswin's back. "You mind keepin' an ear out for $mc? I'm taking this one to yer parents and for some fresh air." "Of course," Oswin responds, looking up into Dov's large brown eyes. The days have clearly worn on him, but he hides it well. The Northbreakers are off just a moment later and Oswin heads inside. He doesn't want to bother $mc, especially if $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> finally able to take a good bath. He makes a mental note to bring up new bedding as he takes a seat halfway up the staircase that leads to $mc's bedroom. He listens and hears… [[...soft crying.|C.9a]] [[...a muffled and frustrated scream.|C.9b]] [[...a weak and sad song.|C.9c]] [[...nothing but eerie silence.|C.9d]] [[...slow purposeful breaths.|C.9e]]

His throat constricts as he hears the sorrow from $mc's lips. He can't imagine how $heshe must feel and he wishes so badly that he could do anything to make it go away or provide any real comfort. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>His fingers twitch and it is hard to restrain himself from bursting through the door and holding $mc in his arms. To wipe the tears away and whisper promises that he will find a way to fix everything or die trying.<</if>> The cries subside after a bit and then the only sounds are that of movement through water. Oswin hopes that the contact of Kip's will pull through. He didn't dare ask questions. Neither of $mc's parents seemed thrilled about seeing this person, and Dov seemed anxious about it. Sage and Poppy received a return message quickly that the mage was leaving quickly from Lale, so it shouldn't be long now until they arrive. Over the years, Oswin has picked up a few things about Kip's past, mostly in times he's sought help from him. Kip has been there for him for things Oswin could never place on the shoulders of his own parents and in turn has been trusted with similar secrets. Suddenly, Oswin hears the bath water slosh and splash about. He doesn't hear anything from $mc, but rises to his feet in case $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>call<<else>>calls<</if>> for help. There's silence and then the sound of… [[...hyperventilating.|C.10a]] [[...crying.|C.10b]] [[...screaming.|C.10c]] [[...laughter?|C.10d]] [[...eerie silence.|C.10e]]

His eyes clench shut as he hears the aggravation from $mc's restrained expression. He cannot fathom the immense frustration and anger that must fester in $mc's heart. He wishes so badly that he could make it go away, that he had any solution at all for $hisher plight. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>His fingers twitch and it is hard to restrain himself from bursting through the door and taking $mc in his arms. To bolster $hisher resolve and declare promises that he will find a way to fix everything or die trying.<</if>> The muffled sounds eventually ease and then stop, leaving only the noise of movement through water. Oswin hopes that the contact of Kip's will pull through. He didn't dare ask questions. Neither of $mc's parents seemed thrilled about seeing this person, and Dov seemed anxious about it. Sage and Poppy received a return message quickly that the mage was leaving quickly from Lale, so it shouldn't be long now until they arrive. Over the years, Oswin has picked up a few things about Kip's past, mostly in times he's sought help from him. Kip has been there for him for things Oswin could never place on the shoulders of his own parents and in turn has been trusted with similar secrets. Suddenly, Oswin hears the bath water slosh and splash about. He doesn't hear anything from $mc, but rises to his feet in case $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>call<<else>>calls<</if>> for help. There's silence and then the sound of… [[...hyperventilating.|C.10a]] [[...crying.|C.10b]] [[...screaming.|C.10c]] [[...laughter?|C.10d]] [[...eerie silence.|C.10e]]

His throat constricts as he hears the sorrow from $mc's lips. He can't imagine how $heshe must feel and he wishes so badly that he could do anything to make it go away or provide any real comfort. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>His fingers twitch and it is hard to restrain himself from bursting through the door and holding $mc in his arms. To write a new song for $himher with promises that he will find a way to fix everything or die trying.<</if>> The song subsides after a bit and then the only sounds are that of movement through water. Oswin hopes that the contact of Kip's will pull through. He didn't dare ask questions. Neither of $mc's parents seemed thrilled about seeing this person, and Dov seemed anxious about it. Sage and Poppy received a return message quickly that the mage was leaving quickly from Lale, so it shouldn't be long now until they arrive. Over the years, Oswin has picked up a few things about Kip's past, mostly in times he's sought help from him. Kip has been there for him for things Oswin could never place on the shoulders of his own parents and in turn has been trusted with similar secrets. Suddenly, Oswin hears the bath water slosh and splash about. He doesn't hear anything from $mc, but rises to his feet in case $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>call<<else>>calls<</if>> for help. There's silence and then the sound of… [[...hyperventilating.|C.10a]] [[...crying.|C.10b]] [[...screaming.|C.10c]] [[...laughter?|C.10d]] [[...eerie silence.|C.10e]]

It's unnervingly silent upstairs. He does not even hear the water. It's much too quiet, but not the sort of quiet that precedes trouble. It is the sort of silence that is so heavy and full of emotion that no expression does it justice. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>His fingers twitch and it is hard to restrain himself from bursting through the door and grabbing $mc into his arms. To fill the silence with promises that he will find a way to fix everything or die trying.<</if>> Eventually, the sound of movement through water filters through. Oswin hopes that the contact of Kip's will pull through. He didn't dare ask questions. Neither of $mc's parents seemed thrilled about seeing this person, and Dov seemed anxious about it. Sage and Poppy received a return message quickly that the mage was leaving quickly from Lale, so it shouldn't be long now until they arrive. Over the years, Oswin has picked up a few things about Kip's past, mostly in times he's sought help from him. Kip has been there for him for things Oswin could never place on the shoulders of his own parents and in turn has been trusted with similar secrets. Suddenly, Oswin hears the bath water slosh and splash about. He doesn't hear anything from $mc, but rises to his feet in case $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>call<<else>>calls<</if>> for help. There's silence and then the sound of… [[...hyperventilating.|C.10a]] [[...crying.|C.10b]] [[...screaming.|C.10c]] [[...laughter?|C.10d]] [[...eerie silence.|C.10e]]

His throat constricts as he hears $mc's measured breathing, a method he knows well. An attempt to calm and soothe oneself so you don't break apart. He can't imagine how $heshe must feel and he wishes so badly that he could do anything to make it go away or provide any real comfort. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>His fingers twitch and it is hard to restrain himself from bursting through the door and holding $mc in his arms. To ease the burden and whisper promises that he will find a way to fix everything or die trying.<</if>> The sound subsides after a bit and then the only noise is that of movement through water. Oswin hopes that the contact of Kip's will pull through. He didn't dare ask questions. Neither of $mc's parents seemed thrilled about seeing this person, and Dov seemed anxious about it. Sage and Poppy received a return message quickly that the mage was leaving quickly from Lale, so it shouldn't be long now until they arrive. Over the years, Oswin has picked up a few things about Kip's past, mostly in times he's sought help from him. Kip has been there for him for things Oswin could never place on the shoulders of his own parents and in turn has been trusted with similar secrets. Suddenly, Oswin hears the bath water slosh and splash about. He doesn't hear anything from $mc, but rises to his feet in case $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>call<<else>>calls<</if>> for help. There's silence and then the sound of… [[...hyperventilating.|C.10a]] [[...crying.|C.10b]] [[...screaming.|C.10c]] [[...laughter?|C.10d]] [[...eerie silence.|C.10e]]

Oswin is already rushing to the bedroom when he hears a hard bang against the floor. He forces the door open with a shoulder and it flies open easily, rattling the wall as it smacks against it. $mc is on $hisher knees, drowning in $hisher own breath. $capitalhisher eyes water, tears rolling down $hisher face which is twisted in anguish. He does not know if it is physical pain or emotional turmoil, but Oswin reaches out on impulse. His own knees hit the floor and he cups $mc's face in his hands searching for the source of distress. “$mc! $mc! Can you hear me?” he calls. $capitalheshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>sob<<else>>sobs<</if>>, and Oswin can feel the anguish of the sound in his heart. It's the sound of brokenness, desperation, a sound when hope is lost. “Slow your breath," he starts. "Purse your lips and breathe through them. It’s okay, I’m here. I’m here.” He hugs $mc close and rocks $himher. “Focus on me and let yourself slow down. Focus on me.” It takes a few moments, but $mc finally calms. Oswin stares at $himher trying to will $hisher troubles onto himself, wanting so badly to whisk them away. //This isn't fair.// The atmosphere seems to return to normal, but Oswin can't stop looking into $mc's<<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>> beautiful<</if>> $eyecolor eyes. And then, $mc… [[Smiles.|C.11a]] [[Quickly clutches the towel.|C.11b]] [[Quickly stands.|C.11c]] [[Grins…|C.11d]] $flirt_label [[Flushes and fumbles the towel.|C.11e]] $flirt_label [[Winks…|C.11f]]

Oswin is already rushing to the bedroom when he hears a hard bang against the floor. He forces the door open with a shoulder and it flies open easily, rattling the wall as it smacks against it. $mc is on $hisher knees, expression twisted with anguish. A torrent of tears flood $hisher eyes as $mc's voice rings out in sorrow. He does not know if it is physical pain or emotional torment, but Oswin reaches out on impulse. His own knees hit the floor and he cups $mc's face in his hands searching for the source of distress. “$mc...It’s okay now.” he says, trying to soothe $himher. $capitalheshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>sob<<else>>sobs<</if>>, and Oswin can feel the anguish of the sound in his heart. It's the sound of brokenness, desperation, a sound when hope is lost. “It’s okay, I’m here. I’m here,” he starts. “Focus on me and let yourself slow down.” He hugs $mc close and rocks $himher. “Focus on me. Take some deep, slow breaths. Feel how cool the air is.” It takes a few moments, but $mc finally calms. Oswin stares at $himher trying to will $hisher troubles onto himself, wanting so badly to whisk them away. //This isn't fair.// The atmosphere seems to return to normal, but Oswin can't stop looking into $mc's<<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>> beautiful<</if>> $eyecolor eyes. And then, $mc… [[Smiles.|C.11a]] [[Quickly clutches the towel.|C.11b]] [[Quickly stands.|C.11c]] [[Grins…|C.11d]] $flirt_label [[Flushes and fumbles the towel.|C.11e]] $flirt_label [[Winks…|C.11f]]

Oswin is already rushing to the bedroom when he hears a hard bang against the floor followed by multiple thuds. He forces the door open with a shoulder and it flies open easily, rattling the wall as it smacks against it. $mc is on $hisher knees, expression twisted with anguish as $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>punch<<else>>punches<</if>> the floor. He does not know if it is just physical pain or emotional torment too, but Oswin reaches out on impulse. His own knees hit the floor and he stops $mc's fist with one hand as he cups $hisher face in the other. “$mc...It’s okay.” he says, trying to soothe $himher. $capitalheshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>roar<<else>>roars<</if>>, and Oswin can feel the tremendous anger of the sound in his heart. It's the sound of brokenness, desperation, a sound when hope is lost. “It’s okay, it’s okay to be angry. I’m here.” Oswin hugs $mc close. If $heshe must hit something, he would rather it be directed on the softer leather of his armor. “Focus on me and let yourself slow down.” He rocks $himher gently. “Focus on me, don’t hurt yourself. Deep, slow breaths.” It takes a few moments, but $mc finally calms. Oswin stares at $himher trying to will $hisher troubles onto himself, wanting so badly to whisk them away. //This isn't fair.// The atmosphere seems to return to normal, but Oswin can't stop looking into $mc's<<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>> beautiful<</if>> $eyecolor eyes. And then, $mc… [[Smiles.|C.11a]] [[Quickly clutches the towel.|C.11b]] [[Quickly stands.|C.11c]] [[Grins…|C.11d]] $flirt_label [[Flushes and fumbles the towel.|C.11e]] $flirt_label [[Winks…|C.11f]]

Oswin is already rushing to the bedroom when he hears a hard bang against the floor. He forces the door open with a shoulder and it flies open easily, rattling the wall as it smacks against it. $mc is on $hisher knees, hugging $himselfherself. $mc's eyes water as $hisher hoarse voice rings out in disturbed laughter. He does not know if it is physical pain or emotional torment, but Oswin reaches out on impulse. His own knees hit the floor and he cups $mc's face in his hands searching for the source of such despair. “$mc...It’s okay now,” he says, trying to soothe $himher. $capitalheshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>laugh<<else>>laughs<</if>> but it rends into a sob-like sound, and Oswin can feel the anguish of the sound in his heart. It's the sound of brokenness, desperation, a sound when hope is lost. “I’m here," he starts, hugging $mc close. “Focus on me and let yourself relax.” He rocks gently. “Focus on me, don’t lose yourself in it. Deep, slow breaths.” It takes a few moments, but $mc finally calms. Oswin stares at $himher trying to will $hisher troubles onto himself, wanting so badly to whisk them away. //This isn't fair.// The atmosphere seems to return to normal, but Oswin can't stop looking into $mc's<<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>> beautiful<</if>> $eyecolor eyes. And then, $mc… [[Smiles.|C.11a]] [[Quickly clutches the towel.|C.11b]] [[Quickly stands.|C.11c]] [[Grins…|C.11d]] $flirt_label [[Flushes and fumbles the towel.|C.11e]] $flirt_label [[Winks…|C.11f]]

Oswin is already rushing to the bedroom when he hears a hard bang against the floor. He forces the door open with a shoulder and it flies open easily, rattling the wall as it smacks against it. $mc is on $hisher knees, staring at the ceiling as if $hisher soul has left $hisher body. Such stillness is a disturbing sight, and he does not know if it is because of physical pain or emotional torment, but Oswin reaches out on impulse. His own knees hit the floor and he cups $mc's face in his hands searching for the source of such despair. $mc stares back at him with nothing behind $hisher eyes – just empty resignation. “It’s okay, $mc. It’s okay," he says, trying to soothe $himher. $capitalheshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>remain<<else>>remains<</if>> blank, but Oswin can feel the anguish in his heart. It's the bleakness that comes with brokenness, desperation, the feeling when hope is lost. “I’m here," he starts, hugging $mc close. “Focus on me and let yourself relax.” He rocks gently. “Focus on me and let yourself rise out of it. Slow breaths.” It takes a few moments, but $mc finally calms. Oswin stares at $himher trying to will $hisher troubles onto himself, wanting so badly to whisk them away. //This isn't fair.// The atmosphere seems to return to normal, but Oswin can't stop looking into $mc's<<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>> beautiful<</if>> $eyecolor eyes. And then, $mc… [[Smiles.|C.11a]] [[Quickly clutches the towel.|C.11b]] [[Quickly stands.|C.11c]] [[Grins…|C.11d]] $flirt_label [[Flushes and fumbles the towel.|C.11e]] $flirt_label [[Winks…|C.11f]]

Oswin is lost in $mc's eyes as $heshe adjusts $hisher towel. //Towel.// He tries to contain his reaction. //Shit! Shit! I just barged in here!// But, $mc smiles gently. "Thank you, Oswin." //$capitalheshe thanked me!? $capitalheshe should be angry with me!// His eyes dart around, unsure of where to look as his mind races. //I should apologize. Why would $heshe forgive me? I touched $mc without asking, without a need to. I'm deplorable! I- I- I-// "You shouldn't be out of bed," he barks instead of the apology he wanted. He marches quickly to the door. "And get your clothes on," he huffs before stomping away from the room. //Stupid. Stupid. Why did I say that? Why is that what came out of my mouth!? $mc will never…I don't deserve…. I'm disgusting.// He goes back out to the front porch, wanting to be within easy reach should $mc need help, but have enough distance where they can both recover. Plopping on a bench, he plops his head in his hands. The reprieve is short lived. [[Just a few moments later he hears a pair of voices speaking in unison.|C.12]]

$mc jerks quickly to wrap $hisher towel around to cover up. Oswin reflexively glances down and sees that the towel is the only thing $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>have<<else>>has<</if>> to cover $himselfherself. //Towel.// He tries to contain his reaction, and turns away. //Shit! Shit! I just barged in here!// “It’s not like we haven’t seen each other naked before,” $mc says and Oswin can't tell who $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> trying to reassure. //$capitalheshe should be angry with me!// His eyes dart around, unsure of where to look as his mind races. //I should apologize. Why would $heshe forgive me? I touched $mc without asking, without a need to. I'm deplorable! I- I- I-// "You shouldn't be out of bed," he barks instead of the apology he wanted. He marches quickly to the door. "And get your clothes on," he huffs before stomping away from the room. //Stupid. Stupid. Why did I say that? Why is that what came out of my mouth!? $mc will never…I don't deserve…. I'm disgusting.// He goes back out to the front porch, wanting to be within easy reach should $mc need help, but have enough distance where they can both recover. Plopping on a bench, he plops his head in his hands. The reprieve is short lived. [[Just a few moments later he hears a pair of voices speaking in unison.|C.12]]

$mc stands quickly to wrap $hisher towel to cover up, but becomes unbalanced. Oswin reflexively grabs $hisher elbow to steady $himher. Only then does he realize that $mc is only covered by a towel. //Towel.// He tries to contain his reaction as heat fills his face, and drops his hand. //Shit! Shit! I just barged in here!// “It’s okay,” $mc says and Oswin can't tell who $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> trying to reassure or if $heshe just wants to clear the awkwardness. //$capitalheshe should be angry with me!// His eyes dart around, unsure of where to look as his mind races. //I should apologize. Why would $heshe forgive me? I touched $mc without asking, without a need to. I'm deplorable! I- I- I-// "You shouldn't be out of bed," he barks instead of the apology he wanted. He marches quickly to the door. "And get your clothes on," he huffs before stomping away from the room. //Stupid. Stupid. Why did I say that? Why is that what came out of my mouth!? $mc will never…I don't deserve…. I'm disgusting.// He goes back out to the front porch, wanting to be within easy reach should $mc need help, but have enough distance where they can both recover. Plopping on a bench, he plops his head in his hands. The reprieve is short lived. [[Just a few moments later he hears a pair of voices speaking in unison.|C.12]]

“I commend you for being able to resist looking down,” $heshe say, a glimmer of <<if $SeriousPlayful is 'serious'>>uncharacteristic<<else>>characteristic<</if>> mischief in $hisher eyes. Oswin can feel his face flush, the heat radiates all the way down his neck, and he rushes to stand and look away. //Shit! Shit! I just barged in here!// “You’re taking this much too seriously,” $mc says. “It’s been a few years, but our parents once had us bathe with each other.” //$capitalheshe should be angry with me!// His eyes dart around, unsure of where to look as his mind races. //I should apologize. Why would $heshe forgive me? I touched $mc without asking, without a need to. I'm deplorable! I- I- I-// "You shouldn't be out of bed," he barks instead of the apology he wanted. He marches quickly to the door. "And get your clothes on," he huffs before stomping away from the room. //Stupid. Stupid. Why did I say that? Why is that what came out of my mouth!? $mc will never…I don't deserve…. I'm disgusting.// He goes back out to the front porch, wanting to be within easy reach should $mc need help, but have enough distance where they can both recover. Plopping on a bench, he plops his head in his hands. The reprieve is short lived. [[Just a few moments later he hears a pair of voices speaking in unison.|C.12]]

The sudden motion causes Oswin to glance down out of reflex. He nearly swallows his own tongue. Heat erupts through his entire face. //Ooh gods…// He doesn't know where to look, but he tries to meet $mc's eyes a couple times before he can no longer bear it. //Shit! Shit! I just barged in here!// "It's…it's okay," $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>say<<else>>says<</if>>, clearly trying to smooth things over. //$capitalheshe should be angry with me!// His eyes dart around more, unsure of where to look as his mind races. //I should apologize. Why would $heshe forgive me? I touched $mc without asking, without a need to. I'm deplorable! I- I- I-// "You shouldn't be out of bed," he barks instead of the apology he wanted. He marches quickly to the door. "And get your clothes on," he huffs before stomping away from the room. //Stupid. Stupid. Why did I say that? Why is that what came out of my mouth!? $mc will never…I don't deserve…. I'm disgusting.// He goes back out to the front porch, wanting to be within easy reach should $mc need help, but have enough distance where they can both recover. Plopping on a bench, he plops his head in his hands. The reprieve is short lived. [[Just a few moments later he hears a pair of voices speaking in unison.|C.12]]

Oswin nearly swallows his own tongue as heat erupts through his entire face. Reflexively, as realization dawns, his eyes dip down and he realizes $mc is uncovered. He corrects the offense, trying to make a show of looking away. //Ooh gods…// “It doesn’t bother me if you look, Oswin. Consider it my thanks for rushing to help me, if you want to.” $mc speaks with such candor that Oswin nearly glances again. //Shit! Shit! Stop before you do something stupid, Oswin! I just barged in here!// The urge to take $mc's offering nearly wins completely, and his eyes begin to lower once more and then snap away. //$capitalheshe should be angry with me!// “Relax," $mc continues. "I truly mean that I don’t mind. I may even quite like it." $capitalheshe seems genuine, but Oswin resists. "A bit different now that we’re older now, eh?” $mc acknowledges. //I should apologize, not just stand here and debate about ogling $himher. I shouldn't be this tempted, I know better. I'm deplorable! I- I- I-// "You shouldn't be out of bed," he barks instead of the apology he wanted. He marches quickly to the door. "And get your clothes on," he huffs before stomping away from the room. //Stupid. Stupid. Why did I say that? Why is that what came out of my mouth!? $mc will never…I don't deserve…. I'm disgusting.// He goes back out to the front porch, wanting to be within easy reach should $mc need help, but have enough distance where they can both recover. Plopping on a bench, he plops his head in his hands. The reprieve is short lived. [[Just a few moments later he hears a pair of voices speaking in unison.|C.12]]

<<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"What's the matter, baby brother?"</div> </span> </body> </html> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"What's the matter, baby brother?"</div> </span> </body> </html> <</nobr>> Oswin looks up and sees his sisters watching him with obvious curiosity. Their long black hair is loose today, flowing all the way down their backs, and they wear the same style of green dresses – matching, as usual. Some days, it can be difficult for their own parents to tell them apart, but Oswin knows how to easily. Sage has a tiny scar, just into her hairline by her left temple. The girls get closer and stand on either side of him – it is somehow both comforting and menacing. He takes a deep breath and then explains what just happened. The girls giggle at him. Poppy pats Oswin's head, ruffling his hair like she does the dog. "It's okay, have a bit of mercy on yourself. You've been strained. Nerves will make you act rashly." "Popp is right, just say you're sorry later. If $mc is mad, $heshe<<if $pronouns is 'they'>>'re<<else>> is<</if>> mad. What's done is done, and it's not like you set out to invade $hisher privacy." Oswin groans. "I understand, I still feel…horrible. The list of things for me to apologize for just seems to be growing…" The twins look at each other silently. Oswin hates when they do this. They have a way of speaking to each other without saying a word, like they can speak with their eyes alone. Finally, Poppy nods. <<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"It's time to move, brother."</div> </span> </body> </html> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"It's time to move, brother."</div> </span> </body> </html> <</nobr>> He sighs. "I hate when you two do that." They laugh – also in unison. Sage pinches his cheek, pulling on it – not gently but not rough enough to be mean – a skill she picked up from teasing him as a child and going unpunished by mother and father. "We understand that you go through things we don't know about. We know how much you've always cared about $mc too." Poppy adds. "And it might surprise you, but we still care very much about $himher too." She grabs his other cheek. "But," Sage says. "It's time to say what you need to. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>>One day you may turn around and see $mc with a parade of suitors begging for $hisher attention. You will regret it the rest of your days if you do nothing.<<else>>If you do nothing and lose $mc as a friend forever or fail to even properly apologize for your wrongs, you will regret it the rest of your days.<</if>>" Poppy continues. "It is better to try and be rejected than to not try and never know what could have been." The girls lean down so they're face-to-face-to face with him. <<if $Ofeelings is 'romantic'>> <<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"We approve, so don't drag your feet."</div> </span> </body> </html> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"We approve, so don't drag your feet."</div> </span> </body> </html> <</nobr>> <<else>> <<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"Don't make us get involved."</div> </span> </body> </html> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"Don't make us get involved."</div> </span> </body> </html> <</nobr>><</if>> Oswin swats at them. "I'm going to, I swear it. $mc has enough to deal with right now, I will find the right time." Poppy bops his head. "Time is sometimes important, but don't drag your damn feet. We tire of you being so mopey and want to hear you laugh again, brother." He sighs and agrees with a murmur. It goes quiet for a moment before the girls are grinning at each other again. "What is it now," Oswin dares to ask. Sage smiles and links arms with Poppy. "What did you do to piss off Ves?" He groans. //I forgot about that. Shit…// The girls laugh and pat the belt of daggers strapped at their hips. <<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"Need us to take care of it?"</div> </span> </body> </html> <html> <body> <span> <span style="color:green"> <div style="text-align: center;">"Need us to take care of it?"</div> </span> </body> </html> <</nobr>> [[...There's a long road ahead.|C.end]]

Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this look behind the curtain and a little glimpse into Oswin's mind (scary place, I know). Thank you also so much for following along with me and enjoying this adventure together. You all bring me a great deal of joy and I feel that I have grown a lot as a person because of our little (and growing!) corner of the world. There's more fun in store! ~Lunan ^_^