"Oh, the torment bred in the race,
the grinding scream of death
and the stroke that hits the vein,
the hemorrhage none can staunch, the grief,
the curse no man can bear.
But there in a cure in the house
not from others outside,
but from themselves,
through savage bloodstained strife. We sing to you,
dark gods beneath the earth.
Now hear, you blissful powers underground---
answer the call, send help.
Bless the children, give them triumph now."
-Aeschylus,
The Libation Bearers
Then its voyage was interupted...A spark. Could it be, the birth of divinity? It halted its journey, drifting closer to take orbid around the barren world to widness this wonder.
Thus it became something like an eery moon.
The Silent Observer....
The Elder Thing
Life! it thought to itself, threads roiling left and right as it explored its vicinity with tenative motions.
Suddenly, it felt a chill that permeated its very core. It knew it was not alone, that nothing could be created without... an opposite.
Liiiife... it thought to itself... congealing into a large blob of... SOMETHING as it looked around without eyes. It thought this not with wonder, or even hate, but... hunger. As though it... there! A solitary speck of light and life in this most barren places!
The mass shot up as a huge stream of pink flesh, slamming up into strange lights. Trying to crush it, destroy it, and yet devour it.
Actions
1PP - Attack - Krulsk attacks Ikola
1PP - Attack - Krulsk attacks Ikola
OOC
As Anubis is the attacker, I lose.
But wait... the thing was doing something. It was purifying it's damaged self. And he would not allow it. He would not allow it to tarnish his victory!
Shooting forth some vile ichor, the ooze latched onto the stiched filaments and began to interwine with them. Purity corrupted with vile, tainted being. He would not let whatever purpose the thing was supposed to have come to pass.
Actions
1PP (Domain) - Beget God: Krulsk contributes to begetting the god of Death if I recall correctly? Corrupting it's original purpose to be so.
1PP (Domain) - Beget God: Krulsk contributes to begetting the god of Death if I recall correctly? Corrupting it's original purpose to be so.
And with that, it fled, careening over the smooth surface of the planet.
Hide. It thought to itself as it went, searching desparatly for somewhere to go.
Finally, it stopped, exausted, and, by force of will, reorganized its threads of light into a small woven mat that laid flat against the surface, a patch of flickering brightness against the darkness.
And then a shadow, a copy of all that. Not a copy, no. It was all that, and it was none of that. It was the shadow in the corner of the room, the corpse that draws the eye, the abject that triggers revulsion.
The not-Life drifted to the surface as well, a mess of black strings. Settling beside Life, it pooled, almost supplicating. But it did not speak, did not draw the eye. It did not even move from that spot. It was not a thing, not yet, it was a reminder
Death. I have lost, and I could die.
The mat of light rippled in horror, and then shied away as part of it seemed to touch *something* that sent a shockwave of revulsion through its soul and drove the last vestiges of courage from its mind.
Utterly defeated in body and soul, the mat of light began to slowly crawl away, trying its best to maintain a low profile.
In an instant, it decided that it was something. The end was something, that corpse you avoid is still there. It was something as a reflection of something else, a foil to someone else, existing only as that other did not exist. But it existed, and as it took that thought into itself, it made it strong. No, not it, He.
And suddenly, the Life was aware of another.
Please don't hurt me again.
It was the same voice. It was her voice. But it was his voice now, masculine where it was feminine, deep where it was high, dark where it was light, hard where it quavered.
Me don't hurt. Don't again. Don't please.
The shape gathered itself up. Still a mess of black wires, it tumbled through the space, not a mat like the other, but a gathered form that looped and wound about itself, gathering itself, pulling itself into the space.
They all have to know. Or they'll do and do and do. They'll go and go and go. And then what? What's happens when the going and the doing is over, hm? Do they know? Do you know?
Do you know anything at all?
He twisted himself and settled squarely in front of Life.
And the Other. Does he know?
The thing floated on the bubble of the silence for a moment, letting it swell. It pondered.
Do you want to know? I could let you all know. And then there'd be things to know. There wouldn't just be a Me and a You and a... Other. There'd be a Know. And we wouldn't just know about this, we'd know about a lot of things. There'd be things and things and things and we'd know about them. He would know about them. Would you want to know if knowing meant, well, knowing?
How? I won't be hurt again.
And suddenly the god was all sharp points and edges, the threads of light hardening into blades of light that waited without speaking for any threatening move from the one before it.
Ikola
Generic: 0/1 Domain: life: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 0.
You are me. You saw. It killed. Part.
You are me and I am you. Both are dead but you are not. Understand? you died but then you didn't. But you can still, again and again.
He died, she said, as the months tumbled into seasons and the sparrows fluttered by the sea.
He died, they said, head of stone, cracked marble breast, heap earth, heap earth.
He died, we said, when the sky fell into the earth and the water wrapped the stone.
And again and again it happens. Every day it happens. You happen to, but only to me. And again and again. Sometimes more of you, and sometimes less. And sometimes me all at once. But it happens, again and again, for you, for them, for all. But not me. For I am already me. And someday, so will you.
Everyone dies.
That was the secret to ignite the wind. And on it carried more, songs and whispers, yells and sighs. And they Know now, for there is Knowing to be done.
3 PP (Domain): Beget God: The God of Knowledge is born when the secret of death is told.
Death
Generic: 0/2 Domain: Death: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E: 0/0 Combat:
It blinked. It squirmed. It gurgled unhappily. It wondered where it was. It wondered if that mattered. It wondered what it was. It wondered if that mattered. It wondered what to do next. It concluded that the last one was the only thing that really mattered.
It shifted, gurgling again. Its tentacles began to drift, some seeming to try to grasp the air, some slowly dragging across the barren ground. Some began to trace strange shapes. The creature noticed the movement of it's tentacles.
Umi, it thought, That is my name. Something about the shapes had triggered a fleeting thought. A thought the creature could not explain. It pondered that for a moment, then decided not to ponder any longer.
It began to drift out across the empty landscape, its tentacles still writhing around it. It was looking for something. For what, it did not know, and did not care to know. Perhaps it was looking for a purpose, perhaps it was not.
Umi
Generic: 1/1 Domain: Ocean: 1/1 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 0
The reason for this is that their physiology isn't so much physiology as it is theology. What are the religious ramifications if a god has a mouth? Does that mean that mouths are a fundamental structure of the universe that predates the gods who have them? If so, shouldn't the concept of a mouth, rather than the gods who have mouths, be worshipped? Clearly, these mouths must be the prime movers, the things that created everything else, including the gods. And how would such theology apply to mortal life, where mouths are less about theology and more about physiology?
The matter is further complicated by the fact that mouths imply a body, and divine beings don't necessarily have bodies, certainly not as the concept would eventually come to be defined by mortals. The term "god-flesh" is generally understood by scholars to be a standing for the metaphysical, abstract, bibbly bobbly pseudo-body that gods would presumably actually have. Which is to say, their bodies are not bodies. It seems that paradoxes are inherently necessary if one is going to talk about religion.
Point being, when mortals say that Nos sprung from the mouth of Death, it should not be taken literally.
Setting theological conundrums regarding divine bodies aside, somewhere within Death's "body" there was a... well, not mouth, for the reasons enumerated above. Somewhere within Death's "body" was a "central locus for the concept of communication." This might have been a mouth, might not have been, mortal theologians would talk your ear off debating that point (and don't even bring ears into this!). But it was from this nexus that the god's words came from. And, when the words "everyone dies" left the god's "communicational ideographical mouth thingy," a tentacle was not far behind those words. Indeed, the words had barely passed Death's metaphorical lips when this tentacle tried to push its way out of her "talk-hole."
Unfortunately, as you might imagine, the word "tentacle" has its own baggage. This particular descriptor is further complicated by the fact that, unlike the tendrils of Life and Death, these tentacles had a rigid understructure to them, insofar as something that exists in a conceptual, abstract realm can have a tentacle, or, indeed, a rigid understructure. This structure wasn't straight, nor was it curved. It was, for a lack of a better word (and, it should be noted, at this point words were a rather new and fangled thing, as far as creation was concerned), a joint. Not just one joint, several, and the tentacle wasn't so much a single thing as it was broken up into several smaller tentacles towards the end that was pushing its way out of the dead god's paranormal speech apparatus.
Or, to be short, it was a hand, attached to an arm.
The hand, as it decided that things like itself should be called, pushed its way out of the goddess's might-be-a-mouth-but-we-can't-really-say-for-sure, bent back, and planted itself firmly on what might have been the dead god's face. Another arm pushed its way out of Death's mouth, planted itself on what also might have been Death's face, followed by another, and another. Once these limbs felt they had a good hold on reality (well, the abstract, non-material reality in which gods presumably live), they pushed. For a moment, it seemed that they were trying to rip Death's "Speaky-Central-Node" from its "abstractly might-be-a-body." But, with a pop (oddly enough, no theologian debates that it occurred with a pop), the new god made an exit, stage left... err... mouth (however, theologians do debate on this point).
The new god straightened itself, ensured all its limbs were in proper order, checked to make sure he still had legs ("still" being a largely subjective term, since it hadn't existed before from which it might have had legs leftover), and then turned to look at Life and Death. It devoted a head exclusively to each, with a third looking at seemingly nothing (though this was in the general direction of a fissure in creation, from which another god was creating itself).
The two heads engaged with the present company said, in unison, "Halloooooo!"
GodBlock
Nos
Generic: 2/2, Domain (Knowledge): 1/1
Nos
Generic: 2/2, Domain (Knowledge): 1/1
docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Aq2...
Ikola and Krulsk have gained a level.
Krulsk and Death still need to tell me what they want their extra XP for in terms of their begetting.
Summary:
The world is brand new, and as the Elder Thing stops in the heavens to watch, the first Gods, birthed due to a fissioning of nothingness into the opposites of Life and Corruption. Within moments, the Gods fight, and Krulsk wounds Ikola and sends her fleeing, but not before they together bring forth Death, a corruption of Life itself. Death follows Life and after a short conversation begets Nos as the secret knowledge of Death is revealed for the first time. Elsewhere, Umi, a god of tentacles and the ocean, forms itself from nothingness.
Life did not even notice the sudden preocupation of the god before it with the other god exiting its mouth. Instead, in its agitation and abject refusal to admit that its Enemy, for that is the only word to describe something which states that everything must die, could be correct, it spun and spun and willed it not to be so.
And then something happened.
High above in the void, not too distant from where the Elder Thing lay watching in its eternal wait, a flicker of be-ingness was the only warning before, with a loud trumpeting bellow, a living being appeared.
First to form was a glowing core of crackling blue energy that spat arcs of pure lightning in all directions, which seemed to hit some sort of barrier roughly fifty feet away from its core and flow both forward and backwards, defining a rough ovoid of crackling energy that was nearly 200 feet across at one end, and tapered down to twenty five at the other side. Suddenly, the front of the ovid cracked open, revealing static waves of energy that were highly reminiscent of teeth. Within the 'throat' of the creature pulsed the orb which had started the whole process, which now could be seen to 'beat' much as a 'heart' would beat in a being sure to be created at some point in the future.
Independent processes of lightning arced away from the base of the creature, growing in fits and spurts until six large 'tentacles' rested beneath the 'body' of the creature, each reaching easily twice the 400+ foot length of the creature to wave idly in the darkness.
Within moments, the creature's light dimmed as a dense 'cloud' of dissociated particles began to form around it, bound to the electricity by its constantly rotating wich formed a magnetic pull that was difficult for such small objects to resist. Wreathed now in a 'skin' of particles, the beast roared a roar of electrical might, and with a mighty pulsing of its back end, began to float out into the void, brushing by the Elder Thing as it went.
Awestruck at its own power, Life returned its attention to the current situation just in time to witness Nos finish emerging with its 'Pop'.
There are now TWO of them. It thought suddenly, and, as the new god shouted its first Word, Life fled, fleeing without looking where it was going until it nearly collided with another tentacled thing.
Um... Hello. It said, deciding to use the word of greeting that it had been addressed with earlier.
3 PP (1 PP Age discount, also Domain and Generate) Spawn (Superior) Beast: Ea, the Worldswallower: A massive being composed of living electrical energy. Sustained by its own power, it only requires additional matter in order to grow larger, and there is no limit to its eventual size. In its current form, a roughly 500-foot long ovoid that tapers from 200 to 25 feet in length with 6 tentacles and a mouth of sharp teeth.
Ikola
Generic: 1/2 Domain: life: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 1.
As so the Watcher came into being. This was Omus, the god who sees and waits. Omus saw the presence of light and dark, and knew that neither could exist without the other.
Seeing this, Omus took the wheel of the world in his hands, and began to turn it, that life and death might come and go, all life decaying to death, and all death springing forth new life.
And so, Time itself was born.
Omus
Actions: 2PP (with Domain) Craft: Time
Generic: 0/1, Domain: Time: 0/1, Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/0, Combat: 0.
Power corrupts. The thing knew that, as it idly lingered in the outer reaches of the void surrounding the world. Letting the whims of gravity drift him along as he writhed in a puddle like form. So with great power, he could corrupt much. He had corrupted a god, then corrupted another god, but neither were corrupted truly. One had been damaged, that was no true corruption. His soul was clean, not filthy and decaying. And the new god, from what little he had seen from his far away view, seemed to be not corrupted either. Simply different from what was intended. Different was not corrupt, different was not unclean.
Unclean. Filth. He desired these things. He wanted the world to be nothing more than a pile of wretched disease, and boils, and acidic, and corrosive mists. He wanted whatever lived on it to be both morally and physically scarred and wretched. He wanted those things. But with great power comes great corruption, and he was not sure if he had this power when all the other gods he had seen seemed so clean. If he did not have the element of surprise, the power to attack first and rip, and rent, and tear, and eat, and main, and crush, and kill his enemy, would he survive?
He could not corrupt the world in one fell swoop. He could not make it bubble, and boil, and stink, and seethe, and belch, and writhe with his power. The world was big, and he was small. But he could blight a chunk of it. A big chunk. He would make the world his, one small step at a time.
The earth was from where he had come, rushing, and writhing, and raging, and hungering, so he had a certain kinship with it. If the corruption would begin... it would begin with this. Lowering himself down, the mass of pink tentacles, and ooze, and filth, and teeth, and bone, and flesh dripped some of its pink ichor onto the earth, willing it to create filth, corrupt the world with its power. And so, it did. The pink ichor began to grow, liquifying and spreading into some sort of green acidic substance that belched black smoke into the air. The earth, perhaps out of self-preservation, perhaps out of wishing to serve its master, incased the stuff in stone mountains, hollowed out so that the stuff could see the open air it sought to corrupt. The smoke billowed out for miles and miles, and Krulsk smiled at how the ground underneath it trembled, darkened, and was desecrated.
Krulsk
Actions: 2PP (with Domain) Command: Krulsk wills the earth to create a large cluster of volcano like mountains. Rather than having magma, however, they contain acidic liquid filth that pumps a huge cloud of pollution over a large chunk of the world. The land beneath it is blighted, the light dim, and the rain (when there is any) highly acidic.
Generic: 1/2, Domain: Corruption: 0/1, Skills: G: 1/1 I: 0/0 E:0/0, Combat: 1.
This isn't the place for in character or out of character threads. Run games somewhere else.
An ernest reply
Sir, you fail to see what is being made here. This is the creation of a new setting from within itself. Instead of making the setting objectively as people, we are making a setting subjectively as the beings within the setting. So, on that note, this is a perfect place to run this as it is a homebrew setting set in the homebrew forums.I can not think of a better place for this!
Witness the birth of a brand new setting! With lots of luck and love, it could be as fantastic as one of the major settings. But it is only as successful as the people in it. The more we have, the better the setting is. How else do you think the major settings like, dragonlance, forgotten realms, dark sun, and such were made? They were born!
If you don't like it, then don't play. That simple. Move on. We know who we are and what we are doing and where we are doing it. Lets all play nice and have fun! It's just a game.
So, if you like what you see, please join us in hopefully making one of the best settings ever possible. Just remember, we can not do it with out you!
Sir, you fail to see what is being made here. This is the creation of a new setting from within itself. Instead of making the setting objectively as people, we are making a setting subjectively as the beings within the setting. So, on that note, this is a perfect place to run this as it is a homebrew setting set in the homebrew forums.I can not think of a better place for this!
Witness the birth of a brand new setting! With lots of luck and love, it could be as fantastic as one of the major settings. But it is only as successful as the people in it. The more we have, the better the setting is. How else do you think the major settings like, dragonlance, forgotten realms, dark sun, and such were made? They were born!
If you don't like it, then don't play. That simple. Move on. We know who we are and what we are doing and where we are doing it. Lets all play nice and have fun! It's just a game.
So, if you like what you see, please join us in hopefully making one of the best settings ever possible. Just remember, we can not do it with out you!
OOC: A reply
There is a long history of having games such as these in this forum. Looking up "Lords of Creation" will return 6+ incarnations of this game. We have previously cleared it with the administrators of the forums and have been given permission to be here.
If you had taken the time to actually read the first post of the OOC instead of interrupting our IC thread (come on! Now we have to explain what the strange voice from the heavens who claims that the gods of the world doesn't belong is doing!
), you would see that we are not 'running a party.' We are, as Joran has expertly put it, developing a homebrew campaign setting. It may not be being created in the standard way that you might be used to, by people brainstorming and posting completed areas of the setting, but it is being created nonetheless, piece by piece. If we are upsetting anyone by our presence, we apologize, but we are trying to be as unobtrusive as possible and only take up two threads.
There is a long history of having games such as these in this forum. Looking up "Lords of Creation" will return 6+ incarnations of this game. We have previously cleared it with the administrators of the forums and have been given permission to be here.
If you had taken the time to actually read the first post of the OOC instead of interrupting our IC thread (come on! Now we have to explain what the strange voice from the heavens who claims that the gods of the world doesn't belong is doing!
), you would see that we are not 'running a party.' We are, as Joran has expertly put it, developing a homebrew campaign setting. It may not be being created in the standard way that you might be used to, by people brainstorming and posting completed areas of the setting, but it is being created nonetheless, piece by piece. If we are upsetting anyone by our presence, we apologize, but we are trying to be as unobtrusive as possible and only take up two threads.OOC
Mastercliff, while we do appreciate the concern, this is not the place for it. There is an OOC thread for such a thing. We'd greatly appreciate it if you would delete you post here and move it there. If not that, please at least put it in a spoiler tag.
Joran, would you mind doing the same? Keeping the IC thread clean of off topic OOC stuff would be nice.
um... Toph, you too?
Thanks!
Joran, would you mind doing the same? Keeping the IC thread clean of off topic OOC stuff would be nice.
um... Toph, you too?
Thanks!
"Zebras?"
Like before, with Life, it was his voice, but it was not his voice. In fact, in many ways it was everything his voice was not, but then, somehow that made it all the more his voice.
It had glided some distance, but then it paused. Something was about to happen. It's tentacle began to move, dancing across the ground faster and fast until they were nothing but a blur. Then they stopped. On the ground were several strange shapes and intricate patterns. Ocean, thought the creature. Another unbidden thought. It plunged a tentacle into the center of the drawings, and a surge of energy passed through the hovering being.
The ground began to split open. Cracks, spreading across the surface of the planet, widening, deepening. They stretched for miles in mere seconds. Then water began to pour forth. Bursting from the ground like geysers in some places, quietly seeping forth in others. But the ground didn't stop tearing itself open when the water began. It continued stretching outwards. Soon, water, gently rippling, covered the land all around the hovering creature. Umi decided that what it saw before it was an ocean.
The creature was tired. But there was still energy pulsing inside of it. And there was more work to be done. Ocean. It projected that word, along with an image of the glittering surface before it, far out over the surface of the planet. If there truly were other creatures like Umi out there, perhaps they would hear. Perhaps they would come and join in the celebrating the creation of the first water. Perhaps not.
Then Umi plunged beneath the surface of its creation. There was another world underneath the surface, but one just as barren as the one above. Umi began to swim, gently pulsating its body to glide through the water. It's tentacles writhed, and life spiraled away from the creature. Simple plants, strange microscopic creatures, animals protected by hard outer shells, and so much more!
Fish, a scaly creature had just come into existence. Umi gurgled, it like this one. He began to create fish, so many kinds of fish, pausing every bow and again when names popped into its head. Then the creature was done. It was exhausted, there was no more it could do. So Umi began to drift about, exploring its new realm.
Actions:
Command (Greater): 3 PP - Created an ocean. Or, a large sea, rather. A watery expanse covering part of the planet's surface. Depth varies greatly.
Nourish: 1 PP - Filled the ocean with sea life. Plankton, seaweed, coral, mollusks, and many kinds of fish. No sharks, whales, or cephalopods.
Umi
Generic: 0/1 Domain: Ocean: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 0
And soon found itself coming up to the other Enemy and the thing-which-had-emerged-from-the-Enemy. But, this other thing did not look nearly as threatening now as it had before. Mustering up all of its courage, Life approached.
Hello it said, trying to be friendly again.
For a moment this ball of rotating gas and light stood still, then took shape, slowly as if remembering something from long ago. Looking down at the world, it began to see all that was going on, but still unconcern with it. Something then caught its notice. A force as old as itself began to start. That force was time. Again it recalled memories of an age long ago.
"So Omus has stirred and the turning has begun. Then the dance of existence begins again..." it spoke to itself. With a massive gathering of energy, the humanoid shape reverted back into a ball, then grew bigger and bigger until another massive explosion occurred in a brilliant but violent manner. The ball of gas and light shrunk to a smaller version of the same blue and white light, but then transformed into even more of a humanoid shape.
"So as time begins, so to shall space, as it was once before. Luxia was my name, yes, Luxia." Looking over the other massive swirling balls of gas light began to be produced from them illuminating the darkness. "This will suffice for now, but all space must have its guidance." Luxia decreed before dashing of into the further darkness. "More works must be done, yet"
And thus, Luxia re-awoken and from him, stars were created.
Actions:
Forge: 2 PP (including Domain) - Created a small band of stars to encircle the planet.
Luxia
Generic: 0/1 Domain: Space: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 0
He gripped the dry ground with a few spare hands and moved himself closer to the dark being. One head, the one that Death was imitating, leaned forward on a neck that seemed too long, and whispered conspiratorially in the other's ear, "Zebras."
The head snapped back into place and Nos cackled again, his arms dancing on the ground and in the air. One head, the one that had watched Life run away, noticed a great thing appear in the sky. It tried to get the attention of the other heads, and indeed succeeded in that goal by half, but Nos was too focused on the conversation at hand to let himself be torn away. "Alas, alas, we have more things to talk about than zebras, I'm afraid... good word, that, fun to say. Zebras. I like it. But yes, yes, talk about other things now, yes? Okay, good, yes."
Nos sat down on the ground, tucked a few arms underneath himself for cushioning, and had other arms form a backrest against which to lean. One head leaned forward, however, and fixed Death with his gaze. "Now, please, please, tell me everything you know."
The other two heads jerked to attention and fixed Death in their sights. Hands clapped excitedly, and the two other heads agreed with the first, "yes yes, everything you know. Start at the beginning, and when you get to the end, stop."
Nos was ready to wait: it seemed that this creature liked to take its time to chose its words. And zebras was a good word for it to have chosen, it had impeccable tastes. Yet, even as he was totally focused on the act of waiting, the light one reappeared.
"Hello," Life said.
"Hello!" the center head said. "Hallooooo" the two side heads chimed in.
"A pleasure to meet you, a please to meet you," all three said in unison. "Come, come, that one is about to tell us everything it know. Then, then, you call tell us everything you know, yes? Please, please?" several hands clapped excitedly. "As they say," Nos had no idea who 'they' were, "the more you know, the more you know."
Before more could be said or done, a great wave of water washed over the three gods, burying them under mounds of 100% pure liquid wetness. Nos found the experience to be most invigorating, but when he tried to express his glee, he found that the water wasn't very conducive to communicating in his usual manner (at least, as usual as something could be for a being that was still fresh to the world). Afraid that the wetness might prevent conversation, hundreds of Nos' hands began to push the liquid back, until he had established a small little bubble at the bottom of the sea in which they could talk. It would collapse as soon as his hands stopped pushing the water back, but it would suffice for now.
Wet! it shouted, spinning and accidentally wrapping itself around a good dozen of the hands of Not-Enemy before it. It reversed itself quickly, breaking free.
Sorry. It muttered, retracting into a tightly knit ball that hovered and provided light at the depth of the sea.
Thinking, it began to speak.
I know that I have two Enemies, one Not-Enemy and one Other. I know that I am currently with one Enemy and one Not-Enemy. Are you an Enemy, too?
Ikola
Generic: 1/2 Domain: life: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 1.
Three different hands rubbed Nos' three chins as he thought. After a moment, he settled on an answer, "I don't know. What is an Enemey? And, actually, what is a Not-Enemy, and an Other?"
That which stated that everything dies is an enemy
A Not-Enemy is you. I do not know if you are an Enemy yet, but you are not an Other.
An Other does not greet me. I do not know Others.
A thought struck Nos and he asked, "What are you? And... is that all you know?"
An edge of disapointment flavored that last question.
There were definitely things inside. A large creature with many tentacles-that-aren't-tentacles, a thing of light, too bright to look straight at, and a smallish black thing that appears to be covered in bone. The untentacled thing had three round parts on top of it, with holes on them that appeared to be moving. How odd.
Umi began to circle the bubble, observing. It stuck a single tentacle in, then retracted it quickly. There was air inside. Then it settled down, gurgling, waiting for something to happen.
I don't know! You know! He doesn't know! He life! I death! You know!
Death rumbled his strings in a manner that suggested grumbling.
I know... I know there is something else. There is Friend. Enemy, Not-Enemy, Friend and Other. But there is no Friend. Perhaps I will make a Friend.
Suddenly, the protective shell was invaded by a tentacle, bringing in a fresh spray of water.
WET! cried Life.
You! Out there Other. You are becoming Enemy. Stop.
It had expected amusement, but instead it met... anger? Annoyance? Pain? Umi wasn't sure. Wasn't sure it wanted to be sure. Umi gurgled again, it's voice tinged with annoyance. Perhaps I should leave... Perhaps not.
No. Stay. Come... In?
"Alas, alas, it seems there is a miscommunication. Death and life, these are... oh, what should we call them? Nouns? Yes, nouns. They are things, things that are. They are themselves, by themselves, nothing else is required. Know, on the other hand, is not a noun. It is a... um... let's call these sort of words verbs. Yes, I like that, verbs. Verbs are the doing, the actions. Without an object to do or be done, there is no verb. Know isn't a noun, it's a verb. It's an action. I'm not know, because I'm me, and no me's can be so ephemeral. All me's must be nouns. Thus, if you want to, I suppose you could call me Knowledge, but that isn't quite right either. No, I'm not know, I'm Nos. Yes?"
The bright god, on the other hand (and Nos had plenty of other hands), said, "I know... I know there is something else. There is Friend. Enemy, Not-Enemy, Friend and Other. But there is no Friend. Perhaps I will make a Friend."
"Enemy?" Nos asked. "I do not think this words means what you think it means. Who made it, and what makes an enemy an enemy?"
Instead of answering, however, the bright god spoke to the water. That seemed a strange activity, so Nos peered around his hands. There was something out there. "Oh yes yes, excellent. Do come in, do come in. Umi, was it? Good, good. We were just telling each other everything we know. Your turn, your turn. Please, please, share."
But Death was getting tired of this "semantics" thing. There was no Semantics yet, so he found the whole thing rather pointless.
Is there a point to the This? Are you Knowing more? Is he Living more? Is anything Anything-ing more by the This?
It poured all of the knowledge and memories it possessed into the minds of the others. Umi happened to glean a few things from the minds of the others as well. The bright thing was Life, it didn't seem to have a name, but that was close enough. The untentacled creature was Nos, knowledge. And the black thing... Umi couldn't determine if it had a name either, but it was the embodiment of death, and that was what the others thought of it as... That was a bit unsettling, and Umi considered if it might've been a bad idea to share knowledge with death. Then the creature decided against thinking about it.
As for the other two... how delightfully amusing they were! Now Umi was getting somewhere. As for coming in... No. I will stay out here.
Wet was good. Wet could be nice. He could wallow in liquid filth and enjoy ever minute of it. But this place was not that. It was not that at all. It was so clean. So unspoiled. Little... THINGS lived in it. Little things that fed off of goodness, and purity, and cleaniness, and joy, and hapiness, and prosperity, and everything that he was the antithis of.
But wait... what was this... not just fish and plants in the wet, but also... PREY! And others, other prey? They didn't seem as prey like as Prey. But... the thing stopped, it's ooze shifting and reforming idly as it thought. Not even taking the time to enjoy the life that began to wilt and go mad around it by its mere presence. No... what was the use of fighting Prey again? It did nothing last time. It just gave Prey pain, which was nice, and the opporunity to make something new, which was not... no, fighting Prey would not turn Prey into It. And fighting Prey would not make this... expanse of THING into It either.
But perhaps he could... have some fun with the Prey and other prey at least, while also forever tarnishing this place. The thing that was talking to Prey seemed to enjoy the purity of this wet place. He wondered what it would do if he were to tarnish it, corrupt it, blacken it, filthy it, desicrate it?
He could make some more of his pillars of pollution, but... would that work in such a wet place? Besides... all these odd scaled pure things around gave him an idea...
Tentacles reached out all over, collecting the fish and enveloping them in pink ooze, each one struggling all the while. Before he spat them out... and yet, it wasn't them. They were different. Very different... much much bigger for one thing. For another, they now looked like they were covered in warts, and boils, with some of the 'warts' having open vents that ejected black toxins into the water. Clouding it, corrupting it... and he wobbled in glee as the other fish and plants that came into the cloud were paralyzed and suffocated instantly, before being devoured whole by their former comrades. Yes, this was much better.
His new creatures... what should he call them... he was not good at names. He liked corrupting existing things, not making new ones, most of the time. Let him think... Filth Fish? It would have to do for now.
He let most of the Filth Fish swim away, but a few he decided to have some fun with... instead whipping and tormenting them so they swam towards the thing that was talking to Prey and seemed to like the wet.
PP Expenditure-
1PP + 1 Generate PP: Spawn Filth Fish - Krulsks spawns forth Filth Fish, large carniverous fish that expel a constant cloud of deadly toxins. The toxins can last for well over a month, and anything that enters it and dies can be expected to be devoured when the Filth Fish eventually returns.
"I hope so, I hope so," Nos said. "I don't know what you know, your thoughts are not my thought. I want to know your thoughts. What have you done, what do you want to do, why for both? Knowledge is nice, knowledge is kind. Give to me, I give to you, and both will have more than when we started. No loss in sharing, only in keeping."
A brief history of the wet one filled his mind, and Nos began to dance around again. "See, see? Umi knows, he does, he does! Though how he said this, I do not know. He didn't say any words, but I heard and understood. Interesting, interesting..."
In Nos' Mind
It was a curious sensation, learning something without it being said or indicated in the least. Something within Nos urged him that such a thing could not be: nothing came from nothing, at least as far as he could tell. So how did the knowledge travel from Umi to him?
Nos's three heads pondered the conundrum. If words held meaning, and they traveled through mundane materials such as water or air, then the meaning that Umi sent him must have traveled to him, and that meaning must have likewise had a medium. If there was no indication of such a medium, then he must merely not be congizant of it. It would be foolish to assume instead that there simply wasn't one.
The god looked inward, searching his own mind, trying to trace the path from which the knowledge had come. As he did so, he became aware that there was less of him than he would have expected. Here was his form, but where was his power? He held the water at bay, but his hands alone weren't enough for that. He was bending this realm to his will, but where was the power to do so coming from? Perhaps it was the same place as the knowledge Umi had sent him?
Nos became aware of another side to himself. It was him, and when he realized it, he knew he had always known it was there, but that the knowledge had remained unconscious, assumed rather than thought. That side, however, didn't exist in the physical realm in which he had been conversing with the others. It was there, in the same place, but not the same place. It was like two different places co-existed, just slightly out of focus with each other, but close enough that he could look into one or the other at will, if he squinted right.
The others were in this realm as well, though they were different. Umi in particular seemed solid here, perhaps more than in the physical realm, but the other two were... just different. Nos didn't know how to explain it, at least not yet. Perhaps it was simply because they were more unaware of this realm than Umi was, or himself? He didn't know, because they hadn't shared.
The world was here as well, but physical distance seemed ridiculous, while thought is what truly separated things. The earth and water were phantasmal things, bare outlines, having no real thoughts of their own, only the reflection of what others thought of them. But around them, Nos became aware of other things. The life Umi had created. Things swimming in the oceans, thinking what thoughts they could think. They were here too, some more strongly, some more weakly. It was also here that Nos's power to hold back the water seemed to come from. Here, water had no real substance, so even the smallest exertion of force was enough to mold its course. Well... no, that wasn't right. Actually, it was, but it wasn't the whole matter. The application of force here was sufficient to alter the physical realm, and there was power to be had here, but it wasn't all here. There was something else, something that was giving shape to that power, that Nos couldn't yet figure out.
However, he had spent too long lost in thought. That mystery was one he'd have to solve later. For now, he was happy to know of this place. It seemed... useful to know. It gave him another way of affecting the world, a more precise way than the bumbling he had so far been doing.
It was a curious sensation, learning something without it being said or indicated in the least. Something within Nos urged him that such a thing could not be: nothing came from nothing, at least as far as he could tell. So how did the knowledge travel from Umi to him?
Nos's three heads pondered the conundrum. If words held meaning, and they traveled through mundane materials such as water or air, then the meaning that Umi sent him must have traveled to him, and that meaning must have likewise had a medium. If there was no indication of such a medium, then he must merely not be congizant of it. It would be foolish to assume instead that there simply wasn't one.
The god looked inward, searching his own mind, trying to trace the path from which the knowledge had come. As he did so, he became aware that there was less of him than he would have expected. Here was his form, but where was his power? He held the water at bay, but his hands alone weren't enough for that. He was bending this realm to his will, but where was the power to do so coming from? Perhaps it was the same place as the knowledge Umi had sent him?
Nos became aware of another side to himself. It was him, and when he realized it, he knew he had always known it was there, but that the knowledge had remained unconscious, assumed rather than thought. That side, however, didn't exist in the physical realm in which he had been conversing with the others. It was there, in the same place, but not the same place. It was like two different places co-existed, just slightly out of focus with each other, but close enough that he could look into one or the other at will, if he squinted right.
The others were in this realm as well, though they were different. Umi in particular seemed solid here, perhaps more than in the physical realm, but the other two were... just different. Nos didn't know how to explain it, at least not yet. Perhaps it was simply because they were more unaware of this realm than Umi was, or himself? He didn't know, because they hadn't shared.
The world was here as well, but physical distance seemed ridiculous, while thought is what truly separated things. The earth and water were phantasmal things, bare outlines, having no real thoughts of their own, only the reflection of what others thought of them. But around them, Nos became aware of other things. The life Umi had created. Things swimming in the oceans, thinking what thoughts they could think. They were here too, some more strongly, some more weakly. It was also here that Nos's power to hold back the water seemed to come from. Here, water had no real substance, so even the smallest exertion of force was enough to mold its course. Well... no, that wasn't right. Actually, it was, but it wasn't the whole matter. The application of force here was sufficient to alter the physical realm, and there was power to be had here, but it wasn't all here. There was something else, something that was giving shape to that power, that Nos couldn't yet figure out.
However, he had spent too long lost in thought. That mystery was one he'd have to solve later. For now, he was happy to know of this place. It seemed... useful to know. It gave him another way of affecting the world, a more precise way than the bumbling he had so far been doing.
Life notably seemed to sigh, but the sudden sharing of Umi's knowledge had helped it understand somewhat.
I thought I did. What else is there for me to tell you? Shall I give you a, what did you call it, a Name? Very well. I shall be called Ikola. I am Life and I am Ikola. Is that enough?
Ikola
Generic: 1/2 Domain: life: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 1
"Truly," he said. "Well, I offered, so I'll give. You said you wanted to make a friend. Shall I help with that?"
OOC
Sorry guys, I tried posting this last night, but my internet was being stupid and so the post got eaten. I only just got my internet working properly, so I'll see if I can post it now. It won't be as good as it was, but Time_Lord, that'll just give you more room to make your own first post awesome.
You are right, aren't you? You are still my Enemy, for Death must be opposed by Life, but perhaps we may work together at times.
It turned its attention to Nos.
I do wish a friend. I was born only to an Enemy, who hurt me and gave me Death. I fled and Death followed. Then I met you, a Not-Enemy. So Yes, Please help me to make a Friend.
[i]There is something in my Ocean...[/i] The creature blinked at the other assembled gods. [i]I must go.[/i] And Umi sped off to find the source of its strange feelings.
There was a cloud of something in the water. It was similar to the toxic cloud that had been on the horizon before the ocean was born. How odd. Umi sped into it, ignoring the stinging pain it inflicted. There was a creature in the center, one that Umi quickly wrapped in tentacles and began to crush. But... but it was a fish. But not a fish. Umi's grip relaxed and the creature wriggled free.
[i]STOP[/i] Umi commanded, but it did not listen. A true fish would've heard it's creator. How odd.
Look at that happy, foolish god... wanting to crush their former subject, yet not having the strength of will to do so. How pitiful. How wonderful...
The ooze flowed through the water, congealing behind the god that seemed so intent on calling this wetness his own. Words were new for him, but... he grew a mouth, full of sharp pointed teeth, it shifting position as his mass changed and flowed. Now he could speak. Now he could corrupt.
"If a servant betrays it's Master, it deserves nothing less than death, don't you think? Why do you stay your hand," he gurgled, and not because he was underwater.
I wasn't sure if you saw that Nos was offering to help with Punishment. The offer still stands, if you want some PP back. It makes sense that Punishment might need a little knowledge of... well... torturous things ;) If not, no worries.[/spoiler]
Among the hundreds of hands and arms, one twitched, shook, and rose from the ground. Others followed in turn. They crawled over the ground, which was still slightly moist from the ocean, and they made their way over his other hands, the ones that were still holding back the water. Nos threw his mind about, as well. How would one make a creature of nature? What was nature? He didn't know, but perhaps this was the opportunity to define it... yes, Ikola wanted something that lived, the dark one wanted something that died. But, weren't there already things like that? Umi had shown it to him. One hand reached out into the water and caught a hard-shelled creature. Its kind ate and were eaten, breed and were beaten, lived and left. Maybe this should be a friend for Ikola? But, maybe he'd like one of the smaller things more, those things which didn't eat but lived. They didn't taint themselves by causing death, though death was thick about them as others ate.
Maybe a bit of both? Nos looked into the cognitive realm, at the faint, dim glow of the intelligence of these creatures. No, that wouldn't do at all, they were far too base to be a friend. Something new, then. Here Nos drew power from where, he knew not. It came so easily that, indeed, he wasn't sure if the power was his own or something else waiting to enter the world. Wherever that power came from, here Nos shaped it into the fiercest predator he knew of: a crab (to be fair, he didn't know much). It wasn't the physical shape of a crab he mimicked, but the intellectual shape. That was too small, however, so he expanded and improved upon its structure as he could manage, raising it up to a level comparable to life and death.
Nos looked back into the physical realm to see what he had done. Here, there was nothing to see except a glowing orb, too bright to look at. "Um..." Nos said, "This is for the friend, I think."
God Block
1PP towards Beget
2 General PP remaining
1PP towards Beget
2 General PP remaining
Ikola drew the elements closer and closer together until it felt that it could not do so any longer. Finally, the strands of light pulled away, and a single seed, lumpy and misshapen, but as large as Nos' foot floated before them, and began to slowly fall to the ground below...
1 PP: Beget God: Nature is FULLY Ascended! Welcome, Nerdzul!
Ikola
Generic: 0/2 Domain: life: 0/1 Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 1
"As the words are said, so they are," boomed a voice. The voice could not be pinpointed since it did not yet have a form to belong to, but the air pocket had filled with a new darkness. "But there cannot be punishment if there is neither the just or the unjust and there cannot be the unjust without the Law." When the last word had been said a three-sided pillar of graphite pierced its way through the ground. Upon each side of the stone were four lines of symbols. Many mortals would come to think of those symbols as words but these were not the first written words. Instead they were knowing for to look upon the Law was to know the Law.
"The first law is, 'Thou shall not harm thy neighbor.' The second law is, 'Thou shall not steal from thy neighbor.' The third law is, 'Thou shall not harm thy neighbor's property.' And the last law, 'None shall alter the Law.' To break any of these laws is to face the lessons of punishment."
And all was still.
God Block
Forge (2 Generic PP and 1 Domain Specific PP)
The Law - The Law is a physical manifestation of the Law of the Architect. It appears as a three-sided pillar of graphite. If one looks upon the Law they will know the Law and be held to the Law. Any action that would break the Law costs one extra PP (though this part might get altered if it seems too harsh).
0 PP remaining
The Law - The Law is a physical manifestation of the Law of the Architect. It appears as a three-sided pillar of graphite. If one looks upon the Law they will know the Law and be held to the Law. Any action that would break the Law costs one extra PP (though this part might get altered if it seems too harsh).
0 PP remaining
[i]Has this... thing truly turned on its master as you say it has? It is my creation no longer, although I played a part in shaping it. It has wronged me, for sure, but does that make it evil? Perhaps I am evil, for having considered killing it.[/i] Umi paused for a moment. [i]But the reason I do not kill it is unimportant, what is important is that I am not killing it.[/i] Umi paused again, gurgling with satisfaction.
[i]Now what might you be?[/i]
The thing gurgled with irritation... this thing had a mind made out of slipper cracks and wet handholds. It was hard to even keep up with it, let alone take ahold of it and make it like it.
"I am..." he paused for a moment. What WAS he? He was... the opposite of that which had come, the dark twin to the raging light, the flip side of the coin. But what did that make him? Was his entire existence dependent on his other, much like how if heads is destroyed tails is too? Or was he his own entity. Going beyond that, was he really the dark twin of his Prey, or were they simply two seperate albeit mirrored entities?
"I am... Krulsk. That is the world I shall use to describe what I am," he replied simply. "I presume you are that which created this... place. Tell me something... does it not irk you that this simply upstart of a fish is ruining your paradise?"
Krulsk's filth fish produce toxin which could last for up to a month - but what is a mere month in the eyes of Omus?
EDIT: Over time, the toxins began to break down, and soon even giving birth to new life all of their own.
1PP - Nourish: Toxin-Eating Algae
A primitive kind of algae has formed in the wake of Krulsk's filth fish, which actually thrives in their toxins and consumes them, transforming them into less harmful by-products.
(Since it's just algae, do I need to spend 2PP?)
Omus
Generic: 1PP remaining, Domain: Time: 1/1, Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0, Combat:
Umi studied the creature for a moment before replying. [i]I did indeed create this place. And it is a paradise.[/i] Umi glanced around at his creation. [i] It does not irk me that this fish is destroying what I have created. While it is no longer my servant, and I am not its master, it is still a fish. A fish is still a creature of the sea. It has as much right to life as everything I have created. So it will live... until a bigger fish appears to destroy it.[/i] Such was the way of things, according to Umi. He had created the ocean and all of its life, but sooner or later it would begin to shape itself without his involvement.
[i]I am not irked by this fish's appearance. However, I am a bit mystified by it. What caused the harmless fish I created to warp into that creature? I would like very much to know...[/i]
Another one of his hands snaked up next to the other. It dug a hole and the other hand dropped the seed into it. The two covered it with dirt and patted it down. The hands that were holding the water back above it moved, allowing a slight trickle of water in to moisten it. "Let's let it figure itself out, and see what grows."
Nos-Hundred-Hand's central head turned to the creature that the dark god had created. He eyed it up, then he eyed it down, and just to be thorough, he eyed it slantwise as well. "It's a shame, a shame I say. You're young, too young, to know much. But don't worry, don't worry, I'm sure we'll meet again, and then we can talk and share knowledge, yes? That will be splendid, simply splendid. Until then, young one, learn, and learn well."
The left head turned to the bright strands, nodded respectfully, and said, "Ikola."
The right head turned to the dark god, also nodded respectfully, and said, "Death."
Then the god reached up above him, to the roof of the dome, and slide several of his hands between his other hands which were holding the water back. He gripped the edge and heaved himself upward, into the water, his many arms and hands pulled behind him. He hadn't thought about the ramifications, so as his hands stopped pushing back the water, the ocean began to consume the bubble where the gods were. As for Nos himself, he crawled his way through the water, not yet having a concept of swimming. As he went, he left watchers behind. Critters similiar to what Umi had already created, but things that fed of the thoughts of the dead. Well, and their bodies, too. These were physical creatures, they needed more than just cognitive sustinence.
Eventually he reached the surface, broke it, and continued crawling, up into the air. He didn't yet have a concept of air being ill-suited for such an action. He looked out onto the barren world, expecting to see nothing, due to the lack of illumination, but he was surprised to find that not all was entirely dark anymore. There was light. Not much. It was pale, and weak, but it was there. Nos looked up and for the first time saw the scant few stars in the sky. Curious, he went to investigate further.
OOC - Outside Thinker
Nos is looking for you, in case that wasn't clear.
Nos is looking for you, in case that wasn't clear.
"I find your way of thinking rather... disgusting," Krulsk admitted with a gurgle. "You speak of your ocean, and your fish, and your feelings, and yet you have no... ambition. No drive. No vision. As long as this water exists, whatever comes will come. I cannot agree with that. This world is ours for the shaping, and without a driving force to guide it down the right path... what will become of it?"
He was getting off course... the thing has asked a question, and he should answer. He was tempted for a moment to answer that his Prey had done so to earn him another Hunter, but... what would come of that? They would fight, have a misunderstanding, then get over it and be stronger for it and despise him and trust him less. No, how was he to turn their souls black if they guarded their hearts? Krulsk made a decision then... if they were to be corrupted, it would have to be with them seeing the world for what it truly was and not the sunny, wonderful paradise they made it out to be in their minds. He would not lie to make his ends... he would not lie period. Lieing was self-defeating.
"I did," Krulsk gurgled. "I find your paradise disgusting, and thought it could use a little filth to liven it up. I enjoy filth, and corruption, and pain, and agony, and disgust, and horror. I despise this simple world of wetness, and... oh for the hells- did you do that?!" Krulsk spat as he saw some sort of strange plant eat away at his glorious toxins.
1PP + 1 Domain: Command
The waters of the sea erode the mountains, creating sandy beaches all along the coast. The ground and shallow water are very acidic, but toxin-eating algaes often thrive on the sand, where there is enough moisture for them to live but where they can't be eaten by fish.
Generic: 0PP remaining, Domain: Time: 0/1, Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0, Combat:
Umi paused a moment, watching the algae and pondering the rest of Krulsk's words. [i]Is it truly such a terrible a thing to lack ambition? Perhaps. Perhaps not. And you may hate the ocean, while I love it. We are not the same, you and I. And while I may disagree with you, it is not my place to say you are wrong.[/i]
It was illogical to claim that someone was right, while another was wrong. The difference between Umi and the various others he had met were their opinions and powers. They were no more justified than it, or the strange creature before it. Perhaps these musings are correct, a fragment of knowledge that the untentacled one, Nos, would've loved. Perhaps they are not. Umi did not know, did not care to know.
docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Aq2...
God. Level/Domain Slots/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 3/Life:1 New Domain:1/1/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:1 New Domain:1/1/0/0/1
Death. 3/Death:1 New Domain:1/0/0/3/0
Umi. 2/Ocean:1 New Domain:1/0/0/0/0
Nos. You need to put your beget PP into something!
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 1/Time:1/0/0/0/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Everybody else goes on once they spend some PP
If you have a new domain slot, remember that you can either take another level in your current domain, or take a new domain, but you MUST create that new domain before you can claim it. In your first post, please let us know what you plan to do (use it immediately, or save it)
History, Week 2.
Life refuses to believe the secret of Death, and in response creates a massive being of electricity in the void beyond the planet to declare that Life will be present forever. Krulsk creates mountains which shoot forth toxins and poisons the newly-made sea of Nos. However, Omus, God of Time, awakens in the heavens above and works to counteract his dangerous power. Nos discovers the realms of the mind, and forces Life to choose a name: Ikola. Together, Ikola, Nos and Death form a God of Nature in the form of a large seed. Death also creates The Architect, a god of punishment. Finally, far away from the world in the void, Luxia appears and forms the first stars.
"If you will continue to shape this world into your own image, and relish every creation you bring, then you have no right to say 'what shall be shall be'. For we are gods. We ARE what shall be. We CHOOSE what shall be. Even if this algae was not made by either of us, some other god has pulled the strings to make it so. And I intend to find them. Good day," Krulsk gurgled, before shooting away through the water, flowing and writhing as he emerged from the surface... no!
His mountaints... most were still standing, but a few tiny ones near the beach were gone! The air around them clean and... no, actually... hm... Krulsk grew a chin he could stroke with a tentacle. It wasn't clean... it was just different. The beach was... disgusting. The water around it agony to all life not designed to live in it. A sickly hue, a sickly place, even the air was rancid. It was not a blighted paradise like underneath his Pillars of Corruption, but it was still rather intriguing. It deserved some attention... but first...
There! Yet another new god it seemed... one who seemed intent on lessing his dark touch on the world... he was sorely tempted to rip him, rend him, devour him, maim him, scar him... but since he'd created this rather interesting place, he should at least hear the reasoning for his disgusting actions.
"You there. The ugly one," Krulsk gurgled as he flowed towards the god of time, congealing into a ball of twitching tentacles and vestigle mouths beyond his main one. "Some of your actions please me... others enrage me. What is it that you WANT from doing this to my glorious filth?"
Actions
Krulsk continues his quest to make the world as corrupted as possible, reinforcing his very essence and putting his level into the Corruption domain.
Want? intoned Omus, turning his universe-encompassing gaze on the god of corruption. There is no "want". You seek to shape the world in your image, but it will find its own balance. I merely help to maintain that balance. As life decays into corruption, so corruption will spring forth new life.
The fish god does not seek to impose his will on the world - yet his seas wear down your mountains just by licking them.
You may do what you will, but you cannot prevent others from changing what you have done - or it from changing itself. The wheel turns, and powers wax and wane. Behold!
Omus gestured to the ring of stars decorating the heavens. As he did so, they begin to dim and fade.
The light fades from the world, and the universe is plunged into night. The creatures of the world grow cold and hungry. Like this, all will soon wither and die... but after every night, there is a dawn.
The stars began to glow again, even brighter than before. Their light warmed the earth, and the life below flourished.
1PP + 1 domain - Command
Omus alters the stars so that they periodically glow and dim, creating a night and day cycle on the planetoid below.
OoC
Not sure if that should be Command, or... Forge? Or maybe something else?
Not sure if that should be Command, or... Forge? Or maybe something else?
"Are you mad? The world does not shape itself. We do. The sea does not erode the mountains. That was done at your own hand. The stars do not dim and brighten of their own accord, you made it so right in front of me. The wheel does not turn, powers do not wax and wane. I could prevent others if I so chose, but it would exhaust me. It is..."
Krulsk shook his form. "We the gods have created everything here. We change everything here. We destroy, we create, we make live, we make die, everything that is here is by our own hands. Nothing is 'natural', we CREATE nature. We CHOOSE how nature acts. There is no balance or no wheel we do not fashion ourselves. Else I would be FAR more angry at you for damaging the 'natural' process of my Filth Fish and Pillars of Corruption. I have no idea what you speak of when you say that the wheel will turn, for if any one of us decided it, we could shatter the wheel into a thousand pieces."
A hollow column of graphite five miles wide rose around the Law. As the column breached the surface of the ocean, all the water inside the column began to boil away. Fish and other beasts of the deep thrashed about to escape the boiling water, but none found a way beyond the column. The churning water tore flesh from bone and turned the trapped water into a steaming, lumpy soup of death. Not all of the steam left though. Steam flowed to the inside walls of the column. Slowly the steam shaped itself into wispy stairs.
The darkness floated away from the Law as it sat in its pit of flesh, bones, and shells to see what was beyond the dark depths of the ocean.
God Block
2 PP (2 Generic PP) - Command
The Architect creates a graphite column around the Law containing stairs formed from steam.
2 PP (2 Generic PP) - Command
The Architect creates a graphite column around the Law containing stairs formed from steam.
Interesting. But it works by seeing, no? And by seeing, working, hiding working not.
Death made a low sound in the depths of itself. The mass of black furled and unfurled, pondering, slowly. It expanded, and then contracted, like a spray of ink caught in the massing tide.
If one cannot see it, one cannot be bound. Make it seen then, yes?
He followed Punishment as he spoke, and Punishment left.
You do not understand he repeated, his voice less of a rumble than it was before. I AM the inevitability of fate.
You say we shape the world as we choose? Very well. Then I chose that the stars should wax and wane, that the world should see the same cycle of light and dark as us. There are greater things at work than any one of us, however. I could no more stay my hand than you could prevent what is to come.
You say you could prevent others, but it would exhaust you? Then, they would have their time. Life would flourish, and your corruption would be healed. Yet, eventually, that life would die. The elements of the world would wear away. Your power would grow again. By the very act of fighting, you create the cycle you wish to oppose.
Omus' beard had grown longer and grey, his posture more stooped. His empty eyes seemed to carry the weight of eternity. He paused for a moment.
If you wish to consider this, perhaps you should seek out the many-headed god. Yet, I sense that others are rising. You want the other gods to shape the world in their own image? You may have your wish soon enough, but you may not like the result.
"So you claim that this wheel and this natural progress you suggest is... simply us? Then we've been arguing over semantics. If we are this wheel, this natural force, then why call it as such when it is simply our choices that make things as they are? I still disbelieve in what you call this... higher power. What can be higher than a god? I despise those that try to inject meaning and purpose into something where none exist. We do things because we want to, and shape the world to our desires. That's it. I for one am quite happy to revel in my own desires," Krulsk shrugged with some tentacles.
The many-headed god... oh right, he'd seen that god briefly at one point speaking with his Prey. Hm... could this god hold some kind of answer to where this dellusion of higher powers and balance and natural progress came from? It was not a dangerous belief, merely a pitiful one, but he was curious which poor, sad god had decided that there had to be meaning in the universe itself to justify their own existence. "Perhaps I will do that... but first, let me tell you something. I will REVEL other gods bringing their own image into this world, so I may twist it to my own ends. It fills me with delight to see the 'good' twisted into becoming the 'evil', the 'right' into the 'wrong', the 'light' into the 'dark'. Those concepts have little meaning yet, but my mouth waters at the prospect of making the world a perversion of its intent. Remember this one thing... it is every god for themselves, He Who Speaks of Balance and Nature. And every coin has it's flip side."
With that, Krulsk focused... the stars, the day and night this god so clearly coveted. He knew not if he had made these pinpricks of light originally, but he would make his own version to mirror them. Gathering himself, he thrust a lance of his being into the earth itself, causing all across the world at occassional intervals to shine... something. Circles of light, that were dark during the day and bright during the night to mirror and pervert the stars. Shining out from the earth rather than down from the sky. And influencing all life around them into darkness, madness and frenzy as opposed to soothing them and filling them with hope and ambition. Stars, these things above were called... His would be the Dark Stars Of The Earth... Earth Stars. As dark and perverted as the earth he wished it would become, just as the stars above were the hope and light he sought to black out with his Pillars.
"This is not nature. This is not me brining 'balance' to things. It simply amuses me to see things suffer and twisted. As I said, every thing has a flip side. I will relish the day when yours arrives, and seeks to upend every table, and cycle, and wheel, and bar, and order, and rule you seek to impose on the rest of us in your own twisted sense of 'everything happens for a reason'," Krulsk chuckled.
Actions
3PP (2 Corruption PP) - Forge Earth Stars: Krulsk forges Earth Stars, which shine at night and are dull during the day. They cause madness in all around it, thus causing them to be hotspots for maddened beasts, temples of insane priests who worship it and so forth. Even those not near it are effected, causing random madnesses, birth defects and killing sprees around the world randomly on occassion. There seem to be far fewer Earth Stars than real Stars, but that may merely be because since they shine out from the earth some may be manifesting under the ocean, in caverns etc.
Your very presence creates the cycles you so quickly dismiss, he chuckled. You see that every coin has a flip side... I am the edge of the coin. I do not seek to oppose you, only to ensure that the coin keeps spinning.
He smiled, and his dry, aged skin began to crack and flake. Though the two gods hung far above the world below, it seemed for a moment as if a wind were blowing, breaking Omus into a cloud of dust which whirled and danced before fading away.
As Omus left, his voice echoed back to the angry Krulsk. Do what you will, god of corruption he whispered. Simply be aware that nothing lasts forever.
His eyes gazed over all that was created. As he flew, he saw others in the far distance. Changing his course, he headed towards them.
actions
I'm still figuring out this new system, and being self-ascended.....
1PP command? = A hole in the earth opens as Falrn pulls himself out of it.
I plan on expanding this "hole" until I get it the size I want it.
0/1PP 1/1 Domain: Protection 1/1PP Skills: 0/0/1/0/0 XP: 1
I'm still figuring out this new system, and being self-ascended.....
1PP command? = A hole in the earth opens as Falrn pulls himself out of it.
I plan on expanding this "hole" until I get it the size I want it.
0/1PP 1/1 Domain: Protection 1/1PP Skills: 0/0/1/0/0 XP: 1
A bright and speckled fish swam about the depths of the ocean, tail flapping madly. It was alone, alone. Fish are not to be alone, alone. He rocketed this way and that, and then settled into an apparently lazy rhythm along the rocky floor. A calm sense of panic was setting in, the kind that tenses the muscles and focuses the mind to the point of a needle. And it swam.
Oh Death, won't you sing me a song, oh Death.
And the fish swam with the motion of the water. And a black cloud approached. And the fish turned to keep abreast of it, fixing one wide staring eye upon it. And the cloud closed in, and the fish could not swim away.
Oh Death, won't you sing me a song, oh Death.
And the fish died.
Oh Death.
I come to understand, then. Law is spread by example. Clever, in its own way. I shall have to see the effectiveness in the effect. But good.
And Death left Punishment, off to wander the waters on his own.
Umi drifted off through the sea. Perhaps Krulsk had a point. Umi was shaping the world, other beings were as well. They were... gods? Was that what Krulsk had called them? It could not know if there was a greater power, if 'what shall be shall be.' It did not care to know. All that mattered was the here and now. But then again, perhaps the corrupted one was misguided, and his statements were faulty. Perhaps... Perhaps not.
Umi decided he would try to prevent things from killing off all of the life it had created. If it succeeded, surely it was what was supposed to happen. The same if it failed. If nothing in particular was supposed to happen, then it could do as it pleased. So ithe matter was decided. There was no reason for it not to protect it's creation. But how should it go about doing so? Umi settled down to think.
But the wetness was everywhere, for countless meters above and in all directions and no matter where the God went, it was wet.
After many minutes of flailing its luminous form in the dark depths of the ocean, Ikola finally stopped, realizing that the water really wasn't half as bad as it had thought.
It found itself in the deepest darknesses of the ocean, where the pressure of the water forced even the God's form into a compact, shining ball.
I shall create more life. It that was Life thought. What Death had said still rang in its mind. It was untrue that everything died. It had to be. To die was Anathema. Life had to be the thing which it strived for to the exclusion of all else.
And so Life began to work, slowly piecing together the beginnings of a skeleton upon which to wrap flesh, but each time it took its focus from one piece to work on another, the pressure of the Ocean crushed the bone it had just finished into sludge. Ikola attempted it again and again, eventually growing frustrated and throwing the sludge far away before pointing at some random spot of the ocean with all its filaments and forming a creature that could survive in these depths. It would have to be something without structure, something that could survive at this pressure. Something... Gelatinous.
From the spot, a small oozy mass appeared, and then began to grow larger and larger and larger, increasing by orders of magnitude every few seconds. Ikola rushed backwards as it grew... one meter. Ten Meters... One HUNDRED meters. Finally, just shy of two hundred meters in size, Ikola ceased and looked upon the massive beast before him.
It was not much to look at. A large gelatinous mass that oozed along the ocean floor. Ikola knew that it would never be able to move itself from these depths, as its mass was far too large to sustain itself anywhere but a very high-pressure environment. But it was life, and it would not die, Ikola was sure of it.
Satisfied, the God flowed upwards, emerging from the ocean and nearly colliding with a massive beast of scales and wings and... divinity.
[sblock=ooc] Tag, Joran! [/color]
Putting my domain in Life.
3 PP (1 Age discount, 2 domain (life), 1 generate): Spawn (Superior) Beast: The Mother of all Oozes is a massive Gelatinous cube that, due to its nature, can only survive in the deepest parts of the ocean. It is the great garbage disposal of the world, as all things flow to the ocean, and all things sink to the bottom of the ocean, and the cube is always hungry. The ideas is that as the cube grows, it sloughs off bits of itself that become the oozes of the world (which I will create later)
Ikola
Generic: 3/3 Domain: Life: 2/2 Skills: G: 1/1 I: 0/0 E:1/1 Combat: 1
Blinking, at the being of light? He perks his head, "Why so hasty oh bright one?"
Pulling his massive body out of the ocean, he rejoins the other back in the sky. "I was not looking to take a dip in the water just yet, but at least I am smelling fresher now, if not a bit wetter. I am Falrn, who might you be?"
Ikola is my name. I am Enemy to Death and Corruption and Not-Enemy to Knowledge and Water, but I know not what a Falrn is. It looks... the god felt the other inspecting him. ... Impressive, whatever it is.
Nos looked for the one who had made the stars, but that one didn't seem to be around. Perplexed, Nos wandered high, and he wandered low, yet still to no success. On his travels high above the world, he became aware of certain a-doings. He spent time exploring the strange mounds of earth that spewed forth odd goo that seemed to react poorly with the sea like that Umi had created. He examined the odd algae that processed the goo into something more tolerable to those fish. And he spent several days walking around an earth star, occassionally throwing rocks at it (owing to the fact that there were as of yet no plants to produce sticks to poke it with).
Through all this he came to a conclusion. There was far too much stagnation. The world needed to move, to have things within it that moved. It seemed that others would not bother, so he decided to take it upon himself.
The first step was those curious goo that mountains spewed out. Nos looked into the Cognitive Realm, but found nothing dubious about it, and so he crafted unseen roads there for the goo to travel along. Back in the physical realm, these roads appeared as currents, driven by underground veins of the hot substance that heated the water, causing it to rise, only to cool later, and churn the ocean. The fields of these volcanoes expanded further into the ocean.
At the same time, to open up new avenues for things to travel on, Nos took some of the algae that had been eating the stuff. It was only a faint shadow in the other realm, but he crafted new avenues of power to travel to it, which in the physical realm caused it to grow larger. Then, he added protection to the individual bits of algae, and caused them to cling to each other. Grass, simple, wholesome, grass began to spread across the dry ground, although lack of water limited how far it went, and the grass still seemed to need the goo of the volcanoes to grow, so it was primarily limited to those regions around the mountains and the beaches where it washed up.
God Block
1 General PP remaining from last week, +2 General +2 Domain, and +1 Impose for this week
2PP Craft Domain (Travel) (1PP from general, 1PP from Impose): Nos creates and claims the Travel Domain, giving him a special interest in things that move.
1PP Nourish (from Domain: Travel) - Create currents that spread the toxins throughout the waters.
1PP Nourish (from General) - Create grass, to start populating the land with plans.
1 General +1 Domain (Knowledge) remaining.
1 General PP remaining from last week, +2 General +2 Domain, and +1 Impose for this week
2PP Craft Domain (Travel) (1PP from general, 1PP from Impose): Nos creates and claims the Travel Domain, giving him a special interest in things that move.
1PP Nourish (from Domain: Travel) - Create currents that spread the toxins throughout the waters.
1PP Nourish (from General) - Create grass, to start populating the land with plans.
1 General +1 Domain (Knowledge) remaining.
"Unlike you, I chose to have a form. Solid, powerful, and yes impressive."
Coming upon a furtive thought, a grin appeared upon Falrn's face, or about what may appear as one. "Come little bright one! Let us fly together and see this world for what it is and could be! Do try and keep up!" And with that, Falrn beat his massive wings and sped away, looking back to see if Ikola races with him.
The untentacled one, Nos, seemed to be Umi's best bet. He was a collector of knowledge, and if anyone knew what a whale should be able to accomplish to maintain balance, it would be him. Maybe. Umi had met very few other gods, and had not conversed with any of them at great length. No matter, the sea god had to start somewhere. So off it went, in search of knowledge.
First, to scour the ocean. There were new things in the water, creations of other gods. Not dangerous ones though, they all were similar to the algae in the respect that they were cleaning up the ocean. There were other kinds of algae that seemed to be devouring the brains of dead fish, but leaving the rest mostly untouched. These were interesting creatures, so Umi paused to observe them for a while. Then, in a deep trench, it found a giant ooze. At first, Umi mistook it for a god. It was certainly large enough, but it seemed incapable of receiving his telepathic sendings. Umi moved on.
The shore nearest the corrupted mountains had changed. There was now a fine, grainy substance along the edge of the water. It was tainted by the sludge from the mountains, but the algae were present, cleaning some of it up. Umi slipped out of the water and began to hover again. There was a strange substance around the mountains, like algae, only on land. It was definitely a newer creation, like the ooze. Perhaps the being who had created it was still around. Perhaps not. Umi began to drift out across the earth, away from the sea and the mountains, and in the general direction of the tentacled lightning creature, still visible in the sky.
However, Ikola wasn't focusing on that. As it flew, it was thinking about the form of the God next to it, and wondering if it was correct. Should it choose a form? Ikola looked at the other god, marveling at the muscles pulsing beneath the scaly skin and propelling the mighty wings, and decided: Yes.
Falrn. Friend, wait. Ikola said. I wish to take a form.
As the other god slowed, Ikola willed itself into a form not entirely dissimilar to the Dragon. Filamentous wings spread out from a head of densely gathered fibres of Light, while beneath the wings, tendrils of light drifted into the loose shape of a tail and legs of a massive glowing bird of prey.
Ikola made an experimental flap of its wings, feeling the filaments of its divine self stretch and bend to obey.
"What do you Think?" it asked Falrn.
ooc
In case it isn't clear, Ikola has now taken the form that is in the picture description of her... a Phoenix made of strands of golden light
OoC
Omus allows time to pass at an increased rate. However, since this is uniform everywhere except for him, it's completely imperceptible.
Omus allows time to pass at an increased rate. However, since this is uniform everywhere except for him, it's completely imperceptible.
No, what this world needed was something... different. Something to shake things up a bit. Something... of chaos. Mmm, he liked that word. He liked it a lot. But where did he begin? He corrupted the world. He made it decay, he made it die. But was that chaos? No, it was far too predictable... things wasted, things died, things became filthy or wretched. But chaos was something... different. Something very different. It was by its nature unpredicatable. But how could he make something unpredictable when his own thoughts and desires were so simplistic! He could deny the wheel of relatity, but his own mind was a fairly simple wheel with little cunning and very little 'outside the box' thinking, he acknowledged that. He was strong! He didn't need complicated thinking. But he needed someone who was...
The one who was incredibly annoying had mentioned a many headed god... one with answers. He no longer cared about answers to whether there really was a method to the universe or if everything was set about by individual minds strong enough to make their visions become reality. He knew the answer to that, despite his foes fast talking. No, he wanted to know how to smash this wheel if it existed. And if this god was knowledgeable... perhaps they knew.
Things were changing. He approved of it, as it used his corruption, but he had no time to dwell on it. He was on a mission. He would flow, and move, and travel to wherever this god was. Wandering until... hm... that thing seemed to have multiple heads. He thought. The idea of a 'head' was a little nebulous to him.
"Tell me, do you have more than a single head?" Krulsk congealed in front of his new... he hoped what would be an ally.
ooc
Tag Thought
Tag Thought
"Hmm?" Nos asked as his body jerked a few inches into the air. The central head whipped around, turning 180 degrees, to look at the source of the unexpected voice. It saw a mass of bone and flesh and strings and ooze.
"Oh, hello, hello!" Nos's hands lifted him up and rotated him so that his body was also facing the other creature. All the while the center head didn't move, but the other two heads, after taking a brief look at the other creature, looked around the area, seemingly at nothing, though their eyes weren't focused in the physical realm.
"Now, now, what was it you asked? If I have more than one head? That, that is a good question. I've never bothered to count, I should do something about that."
The three heads turned around to look at each other. The central head only saw the left and right heads, the left head only saw the right and central, and the right only saw the left and central. The heads collaborated with each other and, in a moment, all three turned to the new-comer and grinned widely.
"Yes, yes, I do have more than one head. To be specific, I have two!" All three heads had forgotten to count itself, but since they each had counted two, none thought better of it.
"I'm Nos, yes, Nos. Now, I haven't met you before, have I? No, no, I don't think I have. So please, please, take a load off your..." Nos looked at the other creature and perceived it didn't really have anything to take its load off of. "Well, please make yourself comfortable. Or uncomfortable, if you prefer. Then, perhaps, you'll tell me your name and everything you know? Oh yes, yes, that would be most pleasant, it would." The other two heads nodded vigorously in agreement.
Salmon
I'll leave it to you to decide when, exactly, Umi finds Nos, and how he makes his entrance.
I'll leave it to you to decide when, exactly, Umi finds Nos, and how he makes his entrance.
Comfortable... the ooze did something passing for a shrug, before squelching onto the ground with a plot, spreading across the floor to take the look of something approaching a half melted scoop of icecream.
"I was actually here to ask you something similar, but there is no harm in my going first," Krulsk admitted. "I know little. I know the world should be covered in filth, and corruption, and acid, and pain, and terror, and fear, and desperation. To that end I have created mountains that spew forth choking gas, fish that create deadly toxins, and stars of the earth like this one before us that bring forth madness and violence. However, another has sought to thwart my efforts, claiming that it is part of the 'natural cycle of being'. Someone names Onus, I believe? I simply know him as 'Cannot Fit Into His Coporeal Form Due To His Ego'. He claims that the wheel of time and fate turns, and makes things progress. Which as we both know I'm sure is a whole lot of crap, as we gods shape the world however we see fit with no rhyme or reason beyond our own vision and whims."
He was getting to the center of the matter here he knew. "That is why I'm here, in fact. I seek to have someone more knowledgeable than this Onus debunk his insanity. But more importantly, I also seek... inspiration. My thinking can be blunt, and anything I do under my own inspiration would likely fit into whatever wheel this madman believes creation spins too. I wish to make something that will break his wheel into pieces rather than fit to it. And since he mentioned you being knowledgeable, I thought you might think of a way to do so."
The right and left heads nodded in agreement, though their motion was slow and stopped almost immediately. They hung by the central head, dejected. His hands, which had been fidgeting wildly while he was listening and talking, now hung limp at his side.
After a moment he continued, and his limbs regained a modicum of motion as he did so. "I haven't met this Cannot-Fit-Into-His-Corporeal-Form-Due-To-His-Ego, but I'm always happy to help, always happy. Can't say that there's a pattern to things, can't say there isn't. Not much has happened yet, nothing's repeated, so I'm inclined to the latter, but that's not proof. No, it's not. But to prove him wrong... hmm... if you don't think you can prove him wrong, then he must prove himself wrong, yes? Maybe go to him, get him to state what is fated to happen, then make sure that it doesn't happen?"
A hand tapped Nos on the shoulder, and he looked at his other head that was trying to get his attention. "Cannot-Fit-Into-His-Corporeal-Form-Due-To-His-Ego might not tell us the future, no he might not. But he might still say it is fated, yes he might."
Another hand tapped Nos on the shoulder, and he looked at the yet other head. "Make him break the pattern, then. Help him with something he wants, something that's important to him, and help him see what it is utterly horrible and to never let it occur again. Travesty, outrage, but only himself to blame. Need to know what he wants, first, though."
The creature floated up next to Krulsk and Nos. It made a gesture that could only be described as a nod, or as close to a nod as a floating squid could manage, towards Nos and eyed Krulsk suspiciously. Perhaps the corrupted one had a point about shaping the universe, but he had still defile the ocean, Umi was not quick to forgive him for that.
Greetings. Umi fed the thought into both of their minds. Then it suddenly remembered why it was there. It must ask Nos about whales! But... Perhaps that was not such a great idea with Krulsk about. Sure, telepathic communication allowed for conversations to go unheard by others nearby, but it would be suspicious. Perhaps Umi would be better off just seeing where conversation took him. The whales could wait.
OOC
Thought - Thanks. I wasn't even sure if Umi was really going to go find Nos, that was more an excuse to get him out of the water than anything.
And he? How did his blackness differ? There were the strings that made up his form, but they were of an inferior blackness, a suggested blackness. They were, after all, merely the shadow cast by the brightness. But there was a darkness within him, a darkness deeper than the water, more distant than the sky, and more dangerous than the jagged stone. It was the difference, he thought, between darkness before waking eyes, and darkness behind eyes closed shut. He was not Darkness, he was beyond that. He was after the darkness, after the light.
But he was also more than the Dead, he was the Not-Living. He was the Earth.
He was more than the Death, he was the killing. He was the War.
A spire of black stone shot up through the black water, showering Death in a spray of dark droplets. Water fell off the uneven sides of the thing in sheets, and even loose bits of black rock went tumbling into the deep, splashing modestly in their own turn. And then a deep crack shot through the spire, and another, and another, until the whole thing split in twain. It revealed a core of something more than rock, something more fluid, something deadlier. And Death spoke to it.
Hello, Metal.
PP
2 PP Craft Domain - Earth.
2 PP (Domain) Craft Domain - War.
3 PP (Domain) Beget God - Death ascend Metal to create instruments of War.
1 PP (Domain) Command Land - Create a massive spire of black rock in the middle of the ocean.
2 PP (Domain) Craft Domain - War.
3 PP (Domain) Beget God - Death ascend Metal to create instruments of War.
1 PP (Domain) Command Land - Create a massive spire of black rock in the middle of the ocean.
"So you claim that I should convince the time god to simply tell me something that's predefined, then make it not so? That's a lot more simplistic a solution than I expected from a god who's knowledge was as talked up as your own, but... it's also one I never would have thought about. Being reactive is something I admit I'm not all that good at. I would rather let things lie and start anew than try and repair something lost, whether an argument or a creation," Krulsk chuckled. "It is indeed very true that it's a shame my Earth Stars do so little as it is... perhaps we need to create some kind of life on the land? We now have the grass in my blighted landscapes. So much like how the plant life in the sea provides for the fish, perhaps we could create something that breathes polluted air like the fish do water, and devours grass like they do so- oh, speak of the deity," Krulsk noted as he noticed Umi joining their company. "Hello Water God. I apologize for leaving so abruptly during our talk, but... a pest needed to be dealt with."
"We have flown all over! What or where shall we be off to next?"
Ikola fell silent, and snapped its beak in annoyance. "It is not efficient for the survival of Life. How could it survive in this... un-coordinated mess?"
"Helllloooooo," Nos said to the new comer. His left head extended on a long, long neck and came over to Umi. "It is good to see you again, it is, it is. Do you have something new to tell? Oh that would be lovely, yes lovely."
The other heads remained focused on the vile being before him. One head, the right one, tilted itself and frowned, its crude brow covering much of his eyes. "How are knowledge and complexity related?" The central head shushed him.
"That aside, oh... hmm.. did you tell me your name? I am sorry, I do not seem to recall it, not at all, not at all. But yes, yes, something for these things to 'Core-up' would be lovely, simply lovely. But a system for 'core-up'ing would be best, yes? Yes. Simple is fine, but simple has been done. I am thinking, add some motion to the world, so that motion creates life, and life is core-up'ed by your stars. Yes? Yes. Motion needs energy, though. There's a little heat underground, but thats too little, and too far away. The stars in the sky give a little heat, but too little. Let's make something else in the sky, something big. This will give energy to the surface, where then plants can grow. Then, when plants are grown, we create land-fish. And, with plants and land-fish, there will be plenty of life for these stars to core-up, yes? Yes."
Still... something nagged at him. Something ate away at him. He thought about it, before realizing... nothing mortal they made could stop the one named Onus. He had already proven that if something didn't fit his vision of the world, how his great wheel worked, that he would simply alter it, weaken it, ruin it. He could work to break apart his great wheel of order and fate, but... he knew he wasn't the one for the job. He was too simple. He lacked cunning. He was too honest, and blunt. And his desire to corrupt the world would overcome any desire to free it form the chains of 'fate', if he was forced to focus on it for too long. No... only a god could beat a god, and he was not the god for the task. So... why not create one that WAS up for it?
"The one with many heads... Nos, was it not? I have a proposal for you... if you wish change to be every going on, if you wish constant new things to be created, if you wish for knowing a predestined point meaning knowing nothing else is of any use... lend me your power, and let us create a god who's very essence is change and anarchy!" Krulsk offered, poursing his essencing into a slimy egg of... chaos.
Actions
2PP (1 Generate PP) - Ascend God: Krulsk puts two PP towards ascending the God of Chaos
Nos added the smallest amount of power he could, trying to preserve Krulsk's intent.
As soon as his power touched the egg, he new it was complete. It felt like his own being was being torn apart, as if his smallest fibers were coming apart, and those also breaking into nothingness. Mere mortals surely couldn't withstand the presence of whatever god resided within the egg.
God Block
1PP General contributed to ascending the god of chaos
1 Domain (knowledge) PP remaining
1PP General contributed to ascending the god of chaos
1 Domain (knowledge) PP remaining
Falrn pulls a massive scale from his back. "For us to do so, I think we could use a friend. Some one who is more inclined to it than we are." Falrn holds the scale in his talons, with it hanging towards the ground.
God block
Here is a PP for a beget action. One order of Order coming up!
Here is a PP for a beget action. One order of Order coming up!
OOC God Actions
Generic: 1/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
- 2 PP Spent to Beget Fenris, Loki's monstrous wolf-son as his Exarch
(1 Generic, 1 Domain)
Generic: 1/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
It was dimly aware of Nos greeting it. Dimly aware of Nis and Krulsk pulling together a sphere of something. Dimly aware of a god emerging, calling up a furry thing, and wandering off. Then it decided to do something.
The creature was quite far from the ocean. This was bad. So what was the solution? Umi began to conjure water, shaping a sphere around it. It focused its will on holding it in place, forcing it to retain its form. Then it slipped inside the watery orb. It was very comfortable, and made a very nice transportation device.
At this time Umi thought it would be appropriate to converse, and projected his thoughts into the minds of the others. Nos because Umi was speaking to him, and Krulsk as an attempt to not anger the corrupted one. Nos, what are those things you have so many of? The ones that vaguely resemble my tentacles? Umi wiggled a tentacle for effect.
Actions
2 PP Forge: The legendary Sea Sphere is created. This orb of salt water is large enough to contain a god. It cannot be forced to break its shape, but water can be removed from it via a bucket, cupped hands, a vacuum, etc. Any water removed from the Sea Sphere acts as normal salt water. It lasts for exactly three weeks. The Sea Sphere is immediately replenished when water is removed. Yes, this does male it possible to create infinite water.
Umi
Generic: 0/2 Domain: Ocean: 2/2 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0 Combat: 0
"Yes. For Life to survive and thrive, it must be protected by an Order which underlies all things."
Tendrils of light snapped forward towards the proffered scale, laying out a symetrical lattice over the scale in gentle, shimmering lines that wrapped the scale and infused it with Life's own power.
Grimacing, the god of Life cut down with a suddenly very-much-solid talon, slicing off the tendrils which had been wrapped around the scale from its own body, letting out a sharp bark of pain as the tendrils separated.
"As you said. No Life without a bit of Loss." Ikola said as it and Falrn watched the scale as it grew brighter and brighter and brighter...
2 PP (1 Empower): Beget God: ORDER is Ascended. Welcome to the party, Shadow!
Ikola
Generic: 2/3 Domain: Life: 0/2 Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/1 Combat: 1
He liked the look of his new child... it looked far more appealing than his own half melted icecream look. Hm... perhaps he could... raise himself up, and form his tendrils of ooze into a hulking figure vaguely resembling a humanoid. Wait, this being had eyes... he would create angular ones of milky white. And a mouth... he would make one of sharp, pointed teeth that dominated half his 'face'. This being didn't have randon juts of bone poking out, but... he didn't really mind much that he himself did.
"Welcome, child of chaos... I am your Father. And that which has given you purpose. This is the world. I will enjoy seeing you wreak merry havok in it."
"Why, my dear Umi, they're not-tentacles, of course," Nos replied, the head that was speaking still extended away from the other two so it could converse with the Divine Squid more easily. "Or, if you don't like that name... hmm... legs? No... Arms? Yes, arms seems like a good name for them."
A different head focused on Krulsk as he went through his metamorphuses. "Odd," Nos said, "yes, odd that you'd want to look like something else, after we were just discussing the value of being different. But if you must, if you must. It is quite a nice visage, at least, a nice one, yes, a nice one."
And finally, the third head addressed the newly born thing of Chaos. "Halllloooooo," it said, the head extending on its telescoptic neck to get a good look. "I'm your father too, I am I am... or maybe mother? No, no, Krulsk, there, gave the egg, he did. So he's your mother, yes, and I'm your father, yes? Yes! I'm Nos. Your mother's not Nos, nor is Umi Nos. Your not Nos either, no. What are you, Chaos born? And a pet? Yes, yes, good. It looks a bit like a fur-bearing land trout. What is it? Oh do tell, yes?"
Speaking of which... "Life without chaos is nothing but Prey to be devoured and twisted. Whether it be the god of it or life itself," Krulsk... gurgled was the wrong word now that he was using such a large mouth. More like... growled, boomed, with some gurgling in the back of his throat giving his words a disorting quality. "My command? You are chaos itself! Giving you a command would defeat the purpose for which you were created. To bring change and chaos to the world, beyond what my own mind could comprehend. You are an artist of anarachy, a genius at breaking the bonds of fate, and the wheel of creation. My only command is for you to make any order set upon this world be proved false, any pretenses of a 'grand plan' stripped away to be shown as they truly are! To that end... I give you the last of my strength, for now," Krulsk offered, holding out a ball of his own filth, congealed into a dense point that glowed with power. "Do with it what you will, but make it... impressive. Do not dissapoint me, my Son."
Actions
Krulsks gives 1 Generic PP to Loki. Now he has enough for a Spawn or Command or something ;)
OOC, Please Read
I'll be reserving my 2 PP until others start developing animals and such, which by that time I will hopefully have another PP, and I will use 3 PP to spawn Humans (which should be sufficient enough to create somewhat sophisticated beings, capable of free-will, and this, Chaos in its true form. For with free will, comes the emotional development of greed, lust, etc, and that in time will lead to jealousy, and further more, into acts of violence and Chaos.)
I'll be reserving my 2 PP until others start developing animals and such, which by that time I will hopefully have another PP, and I will use 3 PP to spawn Humans (which should be sufficient enough to create somewhat sophisticated beings, capable of free-will, and this, Chaos in its true form. For with free will, comes the emotional development of greed, lust, etc, and that in time will lead to jealousy, and further more, into acts of violence and Chaos.)
So the existing possibility did not exist. A paradox, waiting for it's own contradiction of nature to be solved by the universe at large, as all such things must inevitably be solved. And so it was, as two gods sought to bring forth another, and the possibility becam reality.
As they worked, the proffered scale glowed, brighter and brighter, until the power within it caused it to crumble into dust, scattering in a light breee that blew past them. And before them, they saw nothing, but they did not need to see. They could feel the presence floating before them, seeming oblivious to their proximity.
"Huh." Ikura said, somewhat bewildered.
"Hello?"
Looking around, "Something happened. Hello? Who are you before us? Show yourself if able."
Several seconds passed, and the apparition shreaked again, lower in volume and followed by another whisper, audible and seemingly at random. It continued for several long moments, before whisper and shreak were nearly indistinguishable, then it finally fell silent.
"Huh."
Another pause as the air rippled before them.
"Hello?"
Another ripple and a sigh, then for a long moment nothing, then it spoke, forming it's own sentences. "I am not able. My name something. Falrn? Ikola? Friend. Something happened. Not able huh. Definitely."
"You are Different From all the others." Ikola said, addressing the shimmer.
"I too had no name for some time. A Not-Enemy demanded I pick one, so I did. Perhaps you should do the same, for that would make things more Orderly."
"I am Order. I would demanded time. Definitly. No pick now. See. more time. Perhaps."
A growl fills the air, and a sense of frustration fills the air. "I do not see. No, not see. I do not." With that, he falls silent.
"Perhaps you cannot see because you lack a physical form?"
A scream of frustration shakes the air. "Perhaps time. Perhaps time is needed. Can not name what I lack. Do not know what is."
Ikola was a bit confused. What was Time? And why would this very strange being before it need it? Did Ikola need it too?
"Maybe I can help you find this time. It is not a Friend or an Enemy or a Not-Enemy or a Not-Friend, and I am not sure what it is, but I will attempt to help you. Is it..." Ikola fumbled for a word... "Something you carry? Hold?"
"Talking? You need more... Talking?" Ikola finally asked. "Why would you need more of that?"
Ikola tried to think of what to say. After a moment, it had an idea.
"Actually, I think I know who we need to talk to if you want more talking. There is one God among us who talks more than the rest of us put together. Nos is his name, and he shouldn't be very far. Falrn, would you join us?"
Ikola began to move, searching for Nos, who was not very difficult to find. However, as they approached, suddenly Ikola stopped dead in the air.
"It is the Enemy. He who HURT me. And The Not-Enemy Nos is WITH it, along with Not-Enemy Umi and an Other! Friend Falrn and ... Order... You must protect me."
And so, before the approaching God the full glory of Ikola appeared, wings of living Light interposing themselves between the nascent shimmering and the Other.
"You positively reek of the Enemy." Ikola sneered. "Who are you supposed to be, Child of Corruption? I will not have others threatening my Kin so casually. Turn back before I am forced to act."
The divine racket caused all three of Nos's heads to stop, jaws a-slack, and turn to look at the commotion. Mouths snapped shut, heads telescoped back to their body, and half-shaped lips bent upwards in a grin, parting as they went to show teeth that were closer to rocks than proper chompers. Thirty hands pressed against the ground, lifted Nos upwards, and walked him towards the newcomers.
"Ikola!" Nos yodeled. "Good to see you again, good to see you. Yes? Yes! You're different, yes, different, but it's a good different, not a bad different. And what is this scale-y fellow? A giant winged fish? Yes, yes, splendid, simply splendid. Can you talk, wing-fish? Oh, that would be wonderful. You could then tell us everything you know, maybe, perhaps, please?"
His right head, however, noticed the displeasure radiating from the bright bird. "Oh, do you mean, Krulsk? He's you're enemy? You really should have said so in the first place. Yes, you should have." Here, the other heads nodded in agreement. "Why do you call him your enemy, again? I wasn't quite clear on that."
Nos's left head, however, thought that there was something strange going on. Yes, strange indeed, for this Loki fellow seemed to think that there was something in the air. Nos couldn't see anything, but Ikola reacted like there was something there as well. Odd that both of them would know something and be so ridiculously rude to not share it. Nos's left head snaked around Ikola and examined the empty air. There did seem to be a shimmer there, but perhaps that was just a trick of his eyes.
The head retracted for a moment and thought. Something that was there and not there. Curious, curious indeed. Nos looked into the cognitive realm and, truly, the thing was there, as brightly and obvious and clear as any other thinking god. But in the physical realm, it was almost non-existent.
Since the creature wasn't strongly in the physical realm, Nos talked to it in the cognitive realm, resulting in telepathy. How do you do that, he asked. I mean, the not having a physical form thing. Is it intentional? Oh yes, yes, please do tell me, that would be lovely.
"He HURT me, Nos. As we've discussed before. But I have learned to defend myself since then."
A different head watched Loki and giggled with glee, "Good trick, good trick. Oh, I know, I know, the real you is..."
Nos couldn't tell the difference between the various physical manifestations. Not only did they look the same, they smelled the same, and he suspected they looked and tasted the same too. But in the cognitive realm, the nexus that was Loki's mind was clear to pick out among the paths of energy he was creating. The manipulation of the physical realm was impressive: he wondered for a moment if Loki was also aware of this place, but he threw the thought aways almost as soon as he had thought it. So far, no one else had bothered to look into their very nature like he had, and even he hadn't solved the riddle that still bothered him. He saw the power being directed in the cognitive realm, he saw the manifestation in the physical realm, but where was the power coming from?
"The real you is that one!" Nos said triumphantly, pointing at Loki's cognitive nexus. He looked back into the physical realm and saw he was pointing in the opposite direction, no where near an image. He... hadn't quite mastered how distances and positions were different between the two realms. "Um... never mind."
Umi took a moment to listen to the others speak, as well as to digest what he was hearing. Life was kin to Order, and both seemed to be allies to the winged fish. Life and Krulsk were enemies. Somehow, Nos had not been aware of this, and he seemed a bit put off by that fact. Then there was Loki, through it all hurling out threats and seeming to prepare himself and his furry... son, was it, for battle. Umi silently commanded his watery transport to drift a bit further away from Chaos, gurgling quietly.
He addressed the shimmer first, reaching out with his mind until he came in contact with the mind of Order. I know not what you are, but your presence has enraged Loki. He would probably attack you if you did not leave. I would suggest you do so. If battle erupted now, Umi was in no way to blame. He had tried to prevent it.
Next Umi addressed Nos, the only other who seemed to bear allegiance to neither Krulsk nor Life. I believe a battle is about to unfold. You may want to move away. Or at least to a better vantage point, so that you might learn more from it. After his words had been sent, Umi backed further away from Krulsk and Loki, positioning himself roughly equidistant from both sides, but offset, so that he was not in-between them.
"You are a headstrong, impulsive fool. You wish a fight? Then your fight is with me. This is your last warning."
Ikola spared a glance for Umi and Nos, and felt a twinge of sadness that neither of them were stepping up to help in this fight. But they were not Friends, mearly Not-Enemies.
"Because hurting HURTS, Nos. And I do not wish to hurt this one, but I will if I must. It is up to him to decide that."
Then, the air fell still, then slowly turned opaque as a voice issued forth."No. There can be no fight. There must be no fight. Order is nothing without Chaos and the inverse is also true. Without one to define the other, neither can exist."
Golden eyes opened and stared at Loki. "If you still wish to battle, even knowing that victory can yield nothing but death, then come forth and we shall both perish."
Nos pondered over this question, since Ikola seemed to not understand that he didn't understand. An idea occurred to him, and it brought a grin to his face. "Oh, I know! You've been hurt, Ikola, yes? Yes. But I haven't been hurt, no I haven't. Was Krulsk hurt? Or There-But-Not-There? Or Loki? No, no, I don't think so. You've been hurt, we haven't, so we don't understand. Yes? Yes. It's not nice to keep knowledge to yourself, Ikola, it isn't nice at all. Shame on you, shame. But if you help me, I'll help you. That's fair, and fair is fair, yes? Hurt me. That way, I will learn what hurting is, then I can explain to the others what hurting is, so they'll understand. Words are my specialty, they are, they are, but not so much yours, no? No. And, once we all know what hurting it, if it is bad, we can avoid hurting, and if it is good, we can hurt. Yes? Oh yes yes, do hurt me, oh please."
As Loki's companion howled, Falrn didn't even blink knowing that it didn't stand a threat.
Adressing the one known as Loki, "It is best to stand down in this instance. You face a battle that you can not win. You will not win nor will you lose. Chose your battles carefully."
Turning his massive head towards Nos, "You seem to be a seeker of knowledge, correct? I am Falrn, Guardian of this world. I am not a flying fish. I am a dragon. And hurting is bad."
"You wish Chaos to survive?" it asked its Son, an eye appearing in the back of the golden head to peer at the now-visible godling. "Is not Chaos your opposite and will it not seek to destroy all that is Ordered? How could you desire its survival?"
And then to Nos. "You wish me to HURT you? That is not something one does to not-enemies. That is reserved solely for Enemies." Ikola's voice grew more dangerous. "You wish to be my Enemy as well, Nos?"
Umi sent forth feelings of incredible sadness and despair, similar to what he had felt when the filth fish first arrived. He tried to make the others understand that this would be all that existed if they went to war. [i]Fighting will get us nowhere. You will destroy yourselves, each other, and everything you have created. Probably. I would appreciate it if you could try to work out your difficulties using words, or, barring that, perhaps... We could split the planet we reside on. Krulsk and Loki, you could take half and twist into... whatever corruption you desire. And Life, Farln, Order, and... Nos? You could turn your sphere into a place of life and peace and... whatever else you may wish. How does that idea sound?[/i] Umi gurgled, satisfied with the conclusion he had reached.
"You wish to be hurt, Nos? And we will remain Friends? Very well." Ikola unfurled a strand of light from its form and gently slapped Nos across one of its faces.
The birth of some of Loki's other children 
Generic: 2/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
- 1 PP spent to Shape Sahaugin
(1 Generic)
Generic: 2/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
"That... is hurting?" Nos asked. He crawled up next to Ikola and lowered his voice. "That is what Krulsk did to you? Maybe... maybe... you over reacted? This hurting thing isn't pleasant, but it is indifferent. Easy to ignore, easy to forget, and look," Nos showed Ikola his face, where he had been struck, "there is no lasting mark."
"Wait, wait," Nos interrupted himself. "Maybe something went wrong? Does it barely sting every time? Maybe you should hurt me again, to make sure?"
With out warning, and without cause Falrn suddenly slashes his talons across Nos's chest leaving a gaping wound all across his chest.
"That is one type of pain. Ikola showed you a lighter version of it."
See, my child? The First War. The Sea crashes against the Earth, gnawing away, away. It is the Siege of the Deep.
He paused. There was activity in the Deep. Dark shapes in the darkness moved, swimming up, up, up.
I am War, child, Death. But you will be My Instrument.
A claw, slick with the wetness of the deep, seized upon the rock, catching the light of the stars on its scaly knuckles. The claw tensed, muscles rippled, and the thing attached to the hand launched itself onto the rock in a spray of water droplets. All around the sounds of more shapes emerging from the Deep presented themselves.
Crouched all about the Dark Gods, though oblivious to the presence of the Divinity, were countless monstrous shapes, all muscles and bony ridges, with great big snapping maws filled with wicked teeth.
And these will be yours.
More time passed, and he began to master the sensation, allowing him to speak more. "Are there just the two kinds of hurting, or are there more? No, I don't think I could properly appreciate them right now if I were to experience them. This hurtings a tad distracting. Is that why you and Ikola think it is bad? Because it is distracting and makes it hard to think? The involuntary reactions are fascinating, too, of course, but yes, I am not sure I would take well to being so distracted at an inopportune time."
Nos tried to straighten up, but he winced and gave up. "No, too distracting for that. But regardless, thank you, non-flying-fish dragon Falrn. Tell me, if you are a dragon, are there other dragons?"
Ichor oozed around Nos' wound, pooling in it.
Ikola resolved to begin immediately. A tendril of light detached from the rest of the filaments, and growing to immense length, whipped down out of the heavens and punctured the ground as Ikola felt a measure of its power draining into the earth.
The first of what Ikola would call 'Trees' appeared later, spindly and, to be honest, looking quite strange for growing directly over an Earth Star. Ikola frowned, but soon more trees appeared, rippling from the ground in a ring around the first and continuing to propagate until the earth below the gods were covered by greenery and trees which spread as far as the eye could see in every direction. The trees began to glow softly with a residue of the God's power, and from their branches and leaves and trunks sprang all sorts of small woodland creatures: birds and squirrels and worms and creepy-crawlies to give children the willies. Soon the forest rang out with the sounds of life.
Satisfied, Ikola turned to the other Gods.
"I was hurt far more than that by the Enemy, Not-Enemy Nos." Ikola said. "The Enemy actually ripped away a part of me such that I will not be complete until I recover it."
1 PP: Nourish Land: A vast forest appears!
1 PP: Nourish Land: The Forest is filled with generic creatures!
Ikola
Generic: /3 Domain: Life: 0/2 Skills: G: 0/1 I: 0/0 E:0/1 Combat: 1
"There are other types of pain. But right now we are not able to appreciate them. It requires a more delicate mind and vessel to properly show. As of right now there are nothing here to properly show it. As for dragons,"
He looks around as if scanning the far horizons.
"No. Not that I am aware of. Maybe in the future there will be, but not now." Falrn lowers his head and sighs. "I do not like causing pain. Sometimes it is needed, but it is best if avoided. Death can come from too much pain. It is something that I do not desire."
Loki was standing on the shore. He was bent over the water, but doing what? He was... creating life? How interesting, another god pouring life into Umi's ocean, and this time he was there to witness it. This life was scaly fish-men. Umi paused. Loki was Krulsk's child. Perhaps his creations would destroy Umi's ocean, as the filth fish had tried to. Perhaps not. Umi decided he was better off safe than sorry. Now was the best time for him to create whales, despite never having gotten around to asking Nos about them.
He drifted off along the shore, and, after traveling a significant distance, slipped into the water. The orb of water already surrounding him shrunk and condensed until it was solid, and small enough for Umi to swallow. He swallowed it. It would be retrieved later.
Now to shape a whale. Umi decided that the whale should be giant. The larger a creature, the better it would be at protecting smaller beings. He grabbed some nearby seaweed and channeled energy into it to cause it to grow. As it grew, it began to coil and wrap around itself. Its color also began to change, shifting from a brownish-green to a deep purple. Soon Umi had before him a large quadrupedal creature. It was similar in shape to Loki's son, but with no head or neck, just two glowing blue 'eyes' where it's neck should have been. Satisfied, Umi fed the creature its purpose through a telepathic link, then released it into the sea. His other tentacles quickly set about creating more, all of them different colors and formed from different kinds of seaweed, but with all of the important details the same. Umi had created protectors of the ocean, and he dubbed them 'whales.'
Actions
2 PP Spawn (Would be 3, but 1 PP Age Discount): Whales are created. The only similarity between these whales and the whales of our world is that both are large sea dwellers. These whales are large (roughly 50 ft. long) seaweed monsters. Their shape is roughly similar to that of a dog, but without a head or neck. Their 'eyes,' actually luminescent photosensitive strands of seaweed, are positioned between the shoulders, about where a neck would be located. Whales are quick swimmers, and speedy runners as well. These traits are useful for preforming their designated task of guarding the ocean from anything that might unbalance it. There are exactly twelve whales in existence.
Umi
Generic: 0/2 Domain: Ocean: 0/2 Skills: G: 0/0 I: 0/0 E:0/0 [b]Combat: 0[/b
Nos-Hundred-Hands turned to Ikola and nodded, "As I said, you help me, I'll help you. I'll give you a warning, yes yes, a warning. Help you hide, when hiding is needed, to avoid the hurtings you don't find interesting? Does that sound good? Yes? Yes."
Nos had worked with both Ikola and Krulsk now, and that gave him a degree of familiarity with their respective powers. On one hand, there was a... pushing to Ikola. When he created, his power caused ripples in reality that went away from him. These waves were regular and simple, like a heartbeat. Krulsk, on the other hand, had a pulling to him. His power caused ripples that felt like they washed over the world towards him. These felt different, too, almost arrhythmatic. On the thirdhand, each of their children, too, shared some of these traits. On the fourthhand, Nos's own power was fairly different, as, on the fifthhand, the powers of the other gods were as well.
That was what Nos needed to know. He looked deep within himself, drawing up the last dregs of power. He placed this in his hands, and a hundred went to work, both in the physical and cognitive realms, pulling, twisting, shaping, until he had a bright, blinding object. He threw this into the sky, upwards and upwards it went, smaller and smaller it appeared, until at last it came to rest. It looked exactly like the other stars, a tiny point of light. But it started to wax, becoming the brightest star in the sky.
The other stars began to wane, but this one remained bright, preventing the world from falling into the true nights it had known before.
"There," Nos said. He turned to the other beings assembled there, and said, "Not sure what to call it... zebra doesn't seem to fit. Daystar, maybe? Or maybe the Hunter's Star? Whatever. Point it, keep an eye towards it. It is brightest when you, Ikola, and your child have the greater sway over the world. It is darkest, though, when Krulsk and Chaos are greater. When it is dark, that is the time to hide if you wish to avoid the hurtings, yes? Yes. And when it starts to dim, that is the sign for the hunter to hunt, yes? Yes."
God Block
2Pp Forge (1PP Domain-Knowledge+1PP Generate): Hunter's Star. This artifact is a single star in the sky that isn't on sync with the other stars. It is brightest when Krulsk is in hiding (like he is now), and darkest when Ikola is threatened by him. This also has the effect of making there being four different levels of illumination:
Stars are bright, Hunter's Star is bright
Stars are bright, Hunter's Star is dark
Stars are dark, Hunter's Star is bright
Stars are dark, Hunter'S Star is dark
The Hunter's Star isn't a proper sun in the least: it's just another star. Day is brighter when it is out, but it is still day if the other stars are bright, even if it is dark. And vice versa: night isn't quite as dark with it out, but it is still night.
0PP remaining (I think we need a refresh soon)
2Pp Forge (1PP Domain-Knowledge+1PP Generate): Hunter's Star. This artifact is a single star in the sky that isn't on sync with the other stars. It is brightest when Krulsk is in hiding (like he is now), and darkest when Ikola is threatened by him. This also has the effect of making there being four different levels of illumination:
Stars are bright, Hunter's Star is bright
Stars are bright, Hunter's Star is dark
Stars are dark, Hunter's Star is bright
Stars are dark, Hunter'S Star is dark
The Hunter's Star isn't a proper sun in the least: it's just another star. Day is brighter when it is out, but it is still day if the other stars are bright, even if it is dark. And vice versa: night isn't quite as dark with it out, but it is still night.
0PP remaining (I think we need a refresh soon)
"You mean when I wish to hide it will be dark, but when the Enemy - it has a name? Krulsk? A fittingly inelegant and ugly name - When Enemy Krulsk wishes to hide, it will be bright and easy to spot hiding things? Excellent."
Worse, it was all so random and chaotic. Order was essentially nonexistent in this realm, which made him curious how these two who had created him even understood the concept or that it was needed. Not that he'd ever bother to ask them. Afterall, if he pointed out the idea that they his creation shouldn't have occured to them, they might second guess their thoughts, and decide to rectify the mistake. And for all the strangeness of this world and all that lacked in his knowledge of it, he much preferred existing over not existing. He couldn't remember not existing, which either meant there was nothing to remember about it or that it was so terrifying he had blocked it from his own mind. Both of which were undesirable. So he sat, thoughts flowing randomly though his mind as he contemplated how best to begin to spread order in the world, to counteract and balance with the forces of his counterpart. Even though he knew creatures wandered the world, it was a dark and random place.
Finally, he came to a decision and began to gather power for it, forming materials and focusing on the specific orderly needs he felt needed to be represented in the world. An even distribution of air and water at the least, for his first try.
With a cry, he hurled energy skyward, the sphere flying upwards. Unfortunately, he failed to anticipate the band of stars, and how could he, since it never occured to him that they existed, and his energy shattered into three. Frustrated, he growled as they were diverted from his intended location.
Still, as these new celestial objects took places of their own choosing, he shrugged, satisfied that at least it had still worked. Observing, he was also less that happy with their decision to begin moving, but at least he sensed that those movements were ordelr yin nature.
Mechanics
..."window.parent.tinyMCE.get('post_content').onLoad.dispatch();" contenteditable="true" />2 PP + 1 PP (domain): Forge Artifact - The three Moons - These moons enforce a more oderly nature on the world below. Specifically, they create tidal forces (increasing the number of ocean currents) and regulate weather into an orderly natural fashion. Excluding divinely influenced weather and tides, or course. For now, all three moons are full at all times.
Also, Toph, while examining the PP record, I noticed it is missing the creation of the stars. Which I commented on in my post since I had no idea there were there :P.
Also, Toph, while examining the PP record, I noticed it is missing the creation of the stars. Which I commented on in my post since I had no idea there were there :P.
No... no no no... NO! This was all wrong, this was all horribly, terribly wrong!
The pink ooze congealed around the trees, flowing through the forest, giving the wood a wide birth as though it were afraid touching it would hurt. This... freshness. It was so very wrong. Why was it green, yet so... wholesome? Not like the green of the fluid in his Pillars. It was just... blech, he thought he was going to throw up.
The animals, at least, he could get behind... most life acted the same way in his presence. They trembled with fear and fury, went mad, ran away or bit their fellows in insanity. He enjoyed it. And this was a place where many such animals could be found... he liked that.
But the plants... they were... wrong. They didn't tremble in his presence. They were INFURIATINGLY neutral to his whims. They just stood there... eating up filth and returning clean air in exhange. At least they could not survive in the areas his Pillars of Corruption belched out toxins... any trees foolish enough to grow there withered and died well before they were even waist high.
Still... he mused, congealing back into his monstrous, vaguely humanoid form. Perhaps these plants did serve a purpose if it hosted such beasts... perhaps he was wrong to simply dismiss these things as horrible. After all, looks could be decieving... and likely they would wither with a mere touch if he gave-
AGHHHHHHHHH! Upon touching the bark of the tree, the slime that was Krulsk's hand burned with the heat of a thousand stars, hissing and bubbling as it fell to the forest floor, blackening and shriveling up at touching the thing. Backing away in pain and fear, he let out another wailing cry that made the animals in the area flee in terror, as he collapse forward from backing into yet another trunk. His back bubbled and blackened, parts falling off as he panted with exertion. Leaves from the tress fell onto him, burning him, falling at the force of his cry. But it was a drop in an ocean of agony at this point.
Krulsk shuddered for some time, before he managed to reform himself and glower at the trees with malice in his eyes. Rest assured... this place would fall. Somehow, someway, he would destroy it and reforge it in his own image, and make it PAY for being so agonizing to his form!
History:
Krulsk and Omus enter into a debate over why the latter interfered with the former's actions, with Krulsk arguing that the Gods shaped reality while Omus declared that Time was the ultimate tool. Ultimately, Krulks storms off and is met by Nos, who proposes several interesting means of proving Omus incorrect.
Falrn, god of protection, pulls himself from his birthplace beneath the earth and meets Ikola, recent creator of the mother of all Oozes deep below the surface of the ocean. The two Gods conspire to create the God of Order, unaware that not far away, Nos and Krulsk are creating a god of Chaos, Loki. The two groups of gods meet, and conflict is narrowly avoided due to the mediation of Umi.
Elsewhere, Death creates a god of Metal to help as Death takes on the aspects of the never-alive Earth and the tumultuous War. And Punishment establishes the Law atop a black spire in the middle of the ocean. Finally, the first sentient life, the Sahaguin, emerge due to Loki and dissapear into the depths of the sea.
docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Aq2...
GOD-STUFF:
Level/Domain Slots/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 3/Life:2 /1/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /1/0/0/1
Death. 4/Death:1 War:1 Earth:1/0/0/2/0
Umi. 2/Ocean:2/0/0/0/0
Nos. 2/Knowledge:1 Travel:1/0/1/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 2/Time:1 NEW DOMAIN:1/0/1/0/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 2/Protection:1/1/0/0/0
Loki: 2/Chaos:1/0/0/0/0
Order: 1/Order:1/0/0/0/0
Nerdzul: Spend some PP and you'll get included
Even with his own natural healing... it still burned. It scarred him, maimed him, hurt him, bubbled away at him, tormented him, angered him, sizzled at him, eroded him, decayed him, pained him, agonized him, lessened him. The cursed wood would be the end of him... barely able to maintain his humanoid form, Krulsk collapsed into the water, gurgling in relief as the water washed away the last of the toxins of life. The acid of the acid beaches feeding him, renewing him.
This was troublesome. For the first time in his existence, he no longer wanted something simply corrupted or devoured. He wanted the woods outright obliterated. However, he could not do that... it was the exact opposite of all he believed. Someone had put it there, and they had a RIGHT to put it there without others erasing it from existence. Perhaps he could twist it... but how could he twist it if he couldn't even TOUCH IT?!
The god of corruption melted into his undefined ooze form to let the water and acid better do their work, growling with frustration. What would the time god do? He was the most coniving of the gods he knew, even if he hated the irritant. Perhaps if he thought the same way he did, with wheels within wheels and plots within plots, he could come up with an idea that wasn't just knocking the whole thing down somehow... hm... well the time god had never outright demolished his works. He had... created something else to erradicate them! Like with the algae and his filth fish, and the acid beaches that arose from the eroding of his pillars! Of course, he could create something to destroy those accursed woods!
Gurgling with glee, Krulsk set about... about... about... NO! Krulsk raged. He couldn't do it! He couldn't just CREATE! He was a DESTROYER! A CONQUEROR! A HUNTER! NOT A CRAFTSMEN! He could... not create life from nothing. He was incapable of it... all of his other creations had been simple corruptions of existing works. How had he not noticed this lack before now?! Calm... calmness... still the rage within your heart and save it for your enemies. He could corrupt, yes. He could corrupt something to deal with that accursed greenery.... but what?? A simple beast was not suitable, no no no, it had to be something that didn't just want to survive, but wanted... on a higher level. He needed something, something...
A sound. Flowing towards it, Krulsk congealed out of sight to see... things?? Fish things... scaled things... things that spoke, and thought like the gods did. Ah yes... that's what he needed... INTELLIGENCE. He would twist these things to his purpose... wait... these were of the water. Could he twist them enough to be of the land and for his purpose without driving them completely mad and of bestial intelligence? Most gods would balk, and think things through. Krulsk had always been more of a trial and error sort of god.
Scooping up all the Sanguine he could, the corrupt god threw them out onto the acid beach shore, before forming around them. Pounding them into new shapes. Concentrating, focusing, twisting and maddening and corrupting until... yes!
These things may be able to survive in water, but they were meant for land. Shelled creatures, with tentacled mouths, and hungry claws. Things that needed acidic filth for their eggs to hatch, and so would need to corrupt all around them make things filthy and acidic enough to propengate. Unless of course they stayed on the shores here, or in other acidic places, but if he moved them over to the forest they would devise ways of surviving there. They were cunning. They would... would... NO!
They were not cunning! They weren't even sentient anymore! He had simply create oversized... shellfish that would populate the acidic beaches, and make their hatcheries there! Simple beasts! He wanted intelligent, not stupid, instinctive... CHULLS of creatures!
Reforming into his humanoid shape, Krulsk slew several of his own creations before taking a breathe. Think... what could he corrupt to form his new creatures? His warriors for the cause of blight and filth? There was... nothing to work off of. He would need to tap into the essence of life itself to form such... beings... and...
Krulsk grinned, and the star above that signalled when he was on the prowl for his Prey turned bright with his malice. If he needed the essence of life itself to form his creations... he would tear it right from the source with his own claws. It had been too long since he had ravaged his Prey. Now he had a purpose to... it would be all the more pleasurable.
Actions
2PP (1 Corruption PP + 1 Generate PP) - Spawn Chulls - Krulsk Spawns forth Chulls, crustacean like abberations that prefer acidic environments. Though they can live anywhere, their egg shells are thick enough that if not eroded away with acid, they can never hatch, thus making chull hatcheries a common sight on the acidic beaches and in some of the more hazardous regions of blighted lands.
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:1 /0/0/0/1
God Actions
Generic: 1/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
- 2 PP Spent to Beget Dagon, another of Loki's Exarchs (1 Chaos + 1 Generic)
Generic: 1/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
The first crevice Umi came across was inhabited by a massive ooze. The second had a large number of filth fish. Umi settled on a third gap in the ocean floor, one in the northernmost reaches of the sea. This is where his newest creations would call home.
He began to shape, pulling together the water and weaving it into... something. Umi wasn't sure what this new race should be like, other than possessing intelligence. Because of this, he had closed his eyes and allowed his tentacles to work without his input. He would see the creature, and make any necessary edits, once he was done. So far though, his creation felt remarkably familiar. It had an elongated body, with several... arms maybe, attached to the bottom. Umi's eyes snapped open, and he was greeted with a reflection of himself. There were a few slight differences of course. The creature was much smaller than Umi, for one. For another, it had only eight short tentacles, rather than Umi's twelve. How delightful this creature was. Umi gurgled at it in greeting, and it gurgled in response. Now, that was all fine and dandy for when the creature was communicating with its own species, but it needed a way to talk to others. Umi granted it a bit of his innate telepathy. He considered supplying it with a way of traveling over land, then decided that the creatures could figure that bit out for themselves.
Satisfied, Umi released his creation into the narrow trench, then quickly set about making more. So many more. His tentacles worked themselves into a blur. Then, abruptly, Umi stopped. He had made enough. He glanced down at the creatures, some of which had already begun gathering seaweed to eat and make meager homes out of. Others drifted into caves in the face of the undersea canyon. What to call them? These creatures needed a name. Perhaps... Kalmar? Yes, Umi liked the sound of that. This race would be called the Kalmar, and this trench would be the Kalamari Trench. It was a mix between 'kalmar' and 'marine.' Brilliant.
Umi expended the last of his energy on an idea that struck him on the spur of the moment. Many of the fish that already existed were edible, but not prime eating material. He should create some kind of delicious creature for the Kalmar to eat. It would help add variety to a diet of seaweed. It would have to be easy to hunt. Umi graves a mollusk off of a nearby rock. What was more easy to hunt than a clam? They didn't even move! Umi expanded it, especially the soft, delicious innards, until he had a clam about the size of a dinner plate. He did the same to all of the other clams in the area, then drifted off to find somewhere to rest.
OOC
I don't quite understand how to work the map, but I don't mid where Kalamari Trench goes, as long as it's in the ocean. If someone who understands it a bit better could drop a pushpin for me, that'd be great.
There, a tangle of green spread across the landscape, a verdant carpet so thick one could not see the ground from above. Wildlife filled it, yet this forest had not grown... it had been born, begotten by a greater power. What that power failed to realise, he mused, was that this world was not ready for such things. It was not the right... time.
Meanwhile, another was shaping the oceans. This was not the hand of the one who had created the water and the fish, this was the hand of another who did not understand the balance in all things. Already, the Filth Fish and the Sahaguin had blighted the populations of sea life - but it could not last. With nothing to eat except each other, their own numbers dwindled, leaving only large banks of algae in their wake. Soon, the sea god's fish would grow more numerous again, and the cycle would begin anew.
This was what Omus had tried to explain to Krulsk. Time flowed, and you could not stop it. Try to dam it, and it would overrun you. Try to force its course and it would find an easier way. That did not mean one could not tweak it, encourage it to go one way or help it to flow another. That was what this world needed. A little encouragement, to find its own way.
Actions
Note: 1 Time PP carried over + 2 PP, 1 Time and 1 Impose. I think.
1PP + 1 Impose - Craft - Evolution
Omus helps the life of the world to help itself, creating (and adopting) the Evolution domain.
1 Time PP - Harm
The complete lack of topsoil causes most of the forest to die out as quickly as it formed. However, the hardier plants last long enough to feast on the others. The result is that some forest remains near the grasslands, but that the rest degrades into a kind of scrub. Meanwhile, those species of fish not cut out for the violent world in which they now live expired, and in turn the numbers of Filth Fish and Sahuagin fall.
1 Evolution PP - Nourish
In turn, new species arise. The insects of the forest find a new quality of life in the grasslands. Meanwhile, amphibians evolve, and thrive in the shallow waters where they can escape their predators whilst feasting on algae, grass and bugs. Berry bushes grow, perfectly adapted to the acidic soil, and small birds find a niche eating their fruit. Soon, the world is much as it was - the forest is smaller and less dense, the waters are less violent and dangerous, and new life flourishes everywhere.
Note: 1 Time PP carried over + 2 PP, 1 Time and 1 Impose. I think.
1PP + 1 Impose - Craft - Evolution
Omus helps the life of the world to help itself, creating (and adopting) the Evolution domain.
1 Time PP - Harm
The complete lack of topsoil causes most of the forest to die out as quickly as it formed. However, the hardier plants last long enough to feast on the others. The result is that some forest remains near the grasslands, but that the rest degrades into a kind of scrub. Meanwhile, those species of fish not cut out for the violent world in which they now live expired, and in turn the numbers of Filth Fish and Sahuagin fall.
1 Evolution PP - Nourish
In turn, new species arise. The insects of the forest find a new quality of life in the grasslands. Meanwhile, amphibians evolve, and thrive in the shallow waters where they can escape their predators whilst feasting on algae, grass and bugs. Berry bushes grow, perfectly adapted to the acidic soil, and small birds find a niche eating their fruit. Soon, the world is much as it was - the forest is smaller and less dense, the waters are less violent and dangerous, and new life flourishes everywhere.
"This world is expanding. Growing. Soon many forms of life will exist Nos. They can also teach you many things if you watch carefully enough."
god actions
1PP command: Falrn hole grows as time moves on getting deeper and larger even as the entrance stays the same.
Falrn: 1/2 /Protection:1/1/0/0/0
1PP command: Falrn hole grows as time moves on getting deeper and larger even as the entrance stays the same.
Falrn: 1/2 /Protection:1/1/0/0/0
God Block
Generic: 2/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
- 1 Generic PP spent to Shape Fish-Men of Dagon
Generic: 2/2 Domain: Chaos: 1/1 Skills: Generate: 0/1 Impose: 0/0 Empower: 0/0 Combat: 0/0
The Hunter's Star grew dark and the others dimmed, trusting the world into deep night. "It would seem, Ikola, that the time has come. For what, I am not sure. Shall we leave that up to you? Yes? Yes. Will you run and hide, or will you stand and fight? I haven't yet created my opinion on this hurting business -- as I said, it is wonderfully interesting, but regrettably distracting -- so I had best keep myself out of any conflict. Best to know before acting, yes? yes."
Nos turned to Falrn, "You can keep your hurting, I now know how to make my one when the need arises. Though I must say, this healing is interesting too, yes? Yes. And unpleasant. The itching is most distracting, and it seemed to drain the body. Yes? Yes. I'll have to keep it in mind, too, yes I will, but seems far less interesting. Maybe if I am bored after figuring out this hurting business. But for you, I think it is time I bid a good night. Yes? Yes. Good bye Mr. Flying Fish... I mean, dragon."
And with that, a hundred arms reached out to the ground and Nos moved away, gliding easily around the newly created trees.
~Elsewhere~
Nos traveled along, upwards and out of the lower world. He glanced behind him and looked into the cognitive realm. Where he imagined the ocean would have been, there was a sea of lights. Intelligent life, starlike in this realm, was multiplying. Excellent, excellent. But he didn't know enough about the nature of his own kind. He needed to know that, before he could start teaching mortals what he knew, and learning from them.
There was still that puzzle. The physical realm held shapes, the cognitive realm held the structure of power that produced those shapes, but where did that power come from? Nos pulled himself deeply into the cognitive realm, and search wildly for where that power emanated, but it wasn't to be found there. He brought up a particularly bright star, a tentacled creature that reminded him of Umi, and he examined it, wondering if perhaps it might hold the answer he sought for.
Nos Discovers a New Plane
The creature was interesting, with many patterns he hadn't seen before, or imagined, but a few sections were actually very similar to Umi. Indeed... they seemed almost identical. And, as Nos examined those sections of the creature, he realized that the power that gave it intelligence was emanating from them. It was Umi's power, actually, faint and barely there, but the lapping pulses, like the soothing sound of the ocean, was unmistakable.
Nos followed each route that Umi's power took, and at last he found one that seemed to be the source. But, it wasn't an end, just... something totally normal. At first Nos was disappointed. However, he had held the creature in his power too long, and it died of old age. It's cognitive matrix unraveled, and then, as the mortal years passed like an instance, its body decayed and turned to dirt. But... there was a little trace of its cognitive presence left. The matrix had changed, but it didn't vanish like the body. Something of the creature endured, but it was only leaving a shadow in this realm.
If there was a body, and a mind, perhaps there was something else than living things had?
Driven by his curiosity, his need to know, Nos pushed against the fabric of that realm, threatening to tear it apart, but there, there was a weakness, a way that opened up into a different dimension. Nos entered this new place he had discovered. Again, the physical world, and indeed the cognitive realm, seemed to be mirrored here, but things were different. Thinking things had a presence, but it wasn't as strong. And... other things, where here. Not just as vague, nearly nonexistent shadows, but independently and of their own accord. Spirits, Nos decided. The spirits of living things were here, sending their power into the physical realm to manipulate what was there.
The god of knowledge looked back into the cognitive realm and saw that, yes, even here spirits had a presence, but it was just the most basic and faintest of matrixes. Yet, that was enough to allow the the spirits to grow in the physical realm. He watched one, a grass seed, channel its energy from the spiritual realm, funneled through the cognitive realm, and in the physhical realm it sprouted roots, then a stalk.
That was where the power to live came from, Nos realized. Indeed, the power of the gods themselves, it seemed. Echoes of Umi's power supported those things he had created.
Nos looked at one of Loki's creations and, in its spirit web, he noticed a similarity. He looked to one of Ikola's, and Krulsk's. Each spirit web had a similarity. There was the imprint of the god who created them, yes, but a uniformity among them all. It was, Nos decided, an imprint of the very power of creation that the god's themselves held.
The creature was interesting, with many patterns he hadn't seen before, or imagined, but a few sections were actually very similar to Umi. Indeed... they seemed almost identical. And, as Nos examined those sections of the creature, he realized that the power that gave it intelligence was emanating from them. It was Umi's power, actually, faint and barely there, but the lapping pulses, like the soothing sound of the ocean, was unmistakable.
Nos followed each route that Umi's power took, and at last he found one that seemed to be the source. But, it wasn't an end, just... something totally normal. At first Nos was disappointed. However, he had held the creature in his power too long, and it died of old age. It's cognitive matrix unraveled, and then, as the mortal years passed like an instance, its body decayed and turned to dirt. But... there was a little trace of its cognitive presence left. The matrix had changed, but it didn't vanish like the body. Something of the creature endured, but it was only leaving a shadow in this realm.
If there was a body, and a mind, perhaps there was something else than living things had?
Driven by his curiosity, his need to know, Nos pushed against the fabric of that realm, threatening to tear it apart, but there, there was a weakness, a way that opened up into a different dimension. Nos entered this new place he had discovered. Again, the physical world, and indeed the cognitive realm, seemed to be mirrored here, but things were different. Thinking things had a presence, but it wasn't as strong. And... other things, where here. Not just as vague, nearly nonexistent shadows, but independently and of their own accord. Spirits, Nos decided. The spirits of living things were here, sending their power into the physical realm to manipulate what was there.
The god of knowledge looked back into the cognitive realm and saw that, yes, even here spirits had a presence, but it was just the most basic and faintest of matrixes. Yet, that was enough to allow the the spirits to grow in the physical realm. He watched one, a grass seed, channel its energy from the spiritual realm, funneled through the cognitive realm, and in the physhical realm it sprouted roots, then a stalk.
That was where the power to live came from, Nos realized. Indeed, the power of the gods themselves, it seemed. Echoes of Umi's power supported those things he had created.
Nos looked at one of Loki's creations and, in its spirit web, he noticed a similarity. He looked to one of Ikola's, and Krulsk's. Each spirit web had a similarity. There was the imprint of the god who created them, yes, but a uniformity among them all. It was, Nos decided, an imprint of the very power of creation that the god's themselves held.
But it was not the Enemy Krulsk that Ikola found, but Enemy Death.
Flatness was boring, Nos decided. There were those mountain things that Krulsk had created, but those were limited mostly to the shores, it seemed, and besides, the ocean itself was horrible flat. Oh sure, someone had taken his cue and helped add a little motion to it, but waves weren't sufficient texture. He needed something with some meat on it, metaphorically speaking. He needed something he could sink his teeth into, again, metaphorically speaking.
"You!" Nos yelled at the water. The water quivered at the tone, and slunk down, trying to hide. "No, no, I'll have none of that, you lazy bit of moistness. Get over here, now."
The water hesitated, it hemmed and hawed, it shuffled its proverbial feet and tried to avoid eye contact. Nos fixed it with a glare. Three glares, actually, and finally the water rose up, coming to a peak in the sky next to him. "Stay!" Nos told the water, and it obeyed.
That was a bit better, but one mountain wasn't enough. He went a little further down slope, and told that water to come up too. It did, and Nos had it stay. He continued down the line, which was really more of a fractalish curve, having water rise up to form mountains in the ocean. Satisfied, Nos left it all to get a better look from up high. A moon nearly took his head off, and he shook thirty fists at it, cursing it like a sailor might have, if sailors existed, and if sailors made up their own curse words.
"You uppity piece of rock! You three hundred and sixty degreed piece of tomfoolery! Watch where you're going!" The moon, fortunately, was too far away to hear.
Nos went a bit higher, trying to get a good advantage to look at the world below. In the process, he noticed the large... thing floating in the sky. He vague recalled seeing it before, when he was born. And ancient, Elder Thing. No one had talked about it, but perhaps it was so old no one thought twice about it. If it had always been, then why pay attention to it?
However, there seemed to be a presence up here, far from the rest of the world. He knew, from his travels, that there were yet others in existence that he hadn't met yet. Perhaps this was one.
OOC - Fred
That's you that Nos is looking for.
That's you that Nos is looking for.
Greetings.
It was said without malice, although it was said with a small degree of distrust.
You seem thoughtful.
Why do you wear that shape?
The cloud-shape rippled forward along the outstretched limb in a series of circling bands. Death was reshaping itself, and when he settled, it was as a pale imitation of the other, a drooping, morose-looking bird composed of dark strings.
Not the light, and the bands, but the shape. You were born as bands and light, but you made the shape. Why? Why did our children all take the shapes they took?
The bird-God shrugged, and as its wings rose up, it dissolved back into the wavy filaments that had defined it.
I took it because of what it inspired me to be: Fast, to keep up with another I found. Also, thing thing Nos calls a 'face' is far more expressive than an assemblage of glowing lines.
Proving that statment wrong, the filaments of the god rippled in the most eloquent of... not shrugs, but a profound unknowing.
As for the others. I have no real idea. Some appear to be for a similar reason, their form inspires their selfness. Take Umi, the Tentacled One. He appears well-suited for the Sea. Others... Less so. I, for instance, fail to see the merits of the form of Nos.
Ikola fell silent for a moment.
I see you are working at taking forms. Why do you do this?
Death faltered for the first, the only time, trying to find the phrase.
I don't know.
But he continued in earnest.
But what is the form that you've taken, does it have a name? What makes it different from what all the others are? Are they different as well? Do they have names?
I think the rest of the gods have names, if that is what you ask. The Enemy - The Other Enemy, not you - is named Krulsk, I have learned.
Do you wish another name, Enemy Death?
I am told that these are rocks. That is what they are.
He pointed at one rock in particular.
That rock there, it is a rock, but it is also itself. It could be called Rock, if it wanted, but it would also be just a rock, and be Rock at the same time.
And now Death gestured at Ikola.
The form you take might be a rock. It's not, so let's call it something else. A dog, perhaps. If that shape is the shape of a dog, are you a dog? Or are you a god? Are you a god who is also a dog? Or are you a god pretending at being a dog? Or is it the other way around? And if we as gods created a creature in that same form that we would call dogs, are they dogs? Are you part of that species as well? If you're a god, are they gods as well? Are you pretending at being a dog, or are dogs pretending at being gods?
In the distance, an unnatural formation of water was becoming visible. Water was forming itself into a peak. Or at least, something was forming it into a peak.
Look over there, look at that water. It is a mountain of water. Or is it just pretending?
"A form is a form. It defines us as much as we define it! Ikola is Ikola. And I am me! No matter what the form! Although if you wish to debate such issues, you might find a better companion in Nos!"
Of course you are you, of course Life is Life. What a simple-minded thing to say!
He stretched out a tendril of cloud and poke the dragon in the ribs.
But this, this bag of sweat and blood and bones, are you that too? Can you be both? And if another shares that form, are they that too? Are they you?
It was said without annoyance, but it was not said with great warmth.
I understand what You say, Enemy Death. Or, I think I do. No, they do not pretend. they are truly what they are, just as I am truly Life and you are truly Death and Friend Falrn is truly Friend Flarn. But I am also Truly Ikola, and Friend Falrn is truly Protection and Nos is truly Knowledge. We are... truly both.
Ikola watched for a moment as the water rose into the heavens.
That is water. It is also a mountain. But it is not a mountain in the sense we often think of a mountain for it is not made of rock. It is its own special and unique thing. Much in the same way, if I were to make something that looked like the shape I just posessed, it would not BE a God, but its own creation. Witness.
Ikola waved its tendrils and suddenly several dozen flaming eggs appeared, hovering about them. Cracking one by one in a blaze of flame that erupted from the core of the egg and washed over the gods, who did not react in the slightest to the heat, birds appeared, with feathers that shimmered in a facsimile of the light which Ikola gave off. Moments later, as the eggshells, glowing and golden hit the sea and vanished beneath the waters, the birds scattered to the wind and were lost.
There. They share my form to a large extent, but they are not Life, nor are they Ikola. I shall call them Phoeni, for they are a unique thing to itself.
And the eggshells, transformed into solid gold, yet fragmented into a million pieces, fell to the sands at the base of the ocean floor, and soon were covered by the motion of the waves.
2 PP (1 PP discount from Spawn): Spawn greater creature: Phoeni. Phoeni in this game are birds of light, that are more on the order of the size of a roc or dragon than the classic 'eagle-sized' phoeni of legend. When they die, they wrap themselves in their oversized wings, which harden into a new shell, from which the new Phoeni is born after a time. The process of birth transforms the egg into solid gold, but also shatters it to pieces. It also unleashes a very very large gout of flame.
2 PP (1 PP empower): Nourish Land (Moderate Resource): The Birthplace of the Phoeni (under the ocean) is now a large gold deposit, formed from the birth of the birds themselves.
Ikola. PP: 0/3 Life:2/2 Generate:1 Impose:0 Empower:0/1 Combat:1
In one violent, terrible instant, Death vanished. But he did not. He was there, they knew he was. But he was not. And he was not simply not physically present. He wasn't present at all, not in the Physical, or Cognitive, or Spiritual realms. And yet he was. It was obvious that he was. But he wasn't.
There was no dark cloud above the sea, no dark voice calling his words, no smell, no taste on the air. He would not be a "something else" and so he would be a nothing.
But that could not be, reality balked at the concept. The senses of the other gods balked at the concept. He simply had to still be there because, somehow, he was clearly still there. Even the finely tuned sense of the gods could not deal with this peculiar trauma, and so they suddenly began to behave very differently. The eyes of Ikola, the nose, ears and whole body of Ikola placed a presence there. And simultaneously, the eyes, the ears, the everything of Falrn did the same. The images, the sounds, flickered and danced before them because, after all, they weren't there, but rather they were being created by the sense that sensed them, as they were doing the sensing.
Ikola saw the image of a young boy, of a race not yet imagined. Dressed smartly with a shock of black hair greased severely back, the boy was covered in a black design that seemed to detail what existed beneath the skin. A strange device was floating on the water before him, constructed from a thin black membrane stretch between thin metal rods that emerged from the centre like the spokes of a wheel. A black stem protruded up from the centre to curve at the topmost end. The boy was crouching by the thing, spinning it, and the spray of the ocean was being caught by the membrane.
Falrn saw a woman holding a similar apparatus over one shoulder, protecting herself and her long, full gown from the spray. Over her head she wore a heavy black helmet constructed from a black metal. This time, both forms spoke the same words, pointing over the backs of the other gods, the woman with the end of her "umbrella" and the boy with one short, chubby finger.
And that, said the voice of a woman and a boy together, Is that pretending to be anything?
There was a groan and a rumble, felt even in the air, even in the water, sending waves tumbling over them. They looked. A great black shape was tearing itself from the land far to the south, lifted on great, powerful pillars of earth. Distance made it foggy, but the thing was massive, almost too big to be allowed. Water rushed into the wake of its passing. It was clearly a continent, wrested free from the earth by some divine instruction and set to stand upon "legs" of stone.
The Earth that would be God
4 PP (Domain): Command Land: A continent-sized chunk of land lifts itself up on massive "legs" of stone. The sea rushes in to fill the void. (2 Domain PP: Earth, 1 Generic PP)
Death: PP: 2/4 Earth:0/2 Death:1/1 War:1/1 Generate:0 Impose:0 Empower:2/2
Ikola stared in rapt facination for a long moment, profoundly unsettled by this massive thing that had ripped itself from the earth.
after a long while, Ikola finally said.
It is no God. It does not share that which we posess, you, and I and Friend Falrn.
After a moment, Ikola spoke again, and this time its voice was hard as steel, its form once more that of the Phoenix, but all sharp angles of shimmering anger.
It does not even - Enemy Death. Explain this abomination. Is this some cruel joke you are playing on me?
Breathe? Move? Live? Of course it doesn't! It's not a god, is it? But it wants to be! It's doomed to be like that forever! Always pretending, never being!
Just like your pretty birds, am I right? You based them on your form, but they will never be you. They will go on pretending to be. Oh how clever I can be!
The boy yanked the umbrella out of the water in a spray of water that caught Ikola in the mid-section. He spun it around, shaking more water off on the other god.
And still, Falrn registered none of this, for this spectacle was for Life's eyes only.
The God Growled,
Put it back.
If I am guilty of something, I am no more guilty than you are. It isn't a god, you said so, even I said so. The difference is, I am not lying to myself. You give your creations different names, but they are so obviously based on you. That is a lie if I ever saw one. I am telling the truth.
If I said this rock here was a whale, I would be lying. So too are you lying when you call those things Pheoni. They are ikolas, and less impressive ikolas, if I do say so. Just because you give something a Name does not make it that thing. Just because that Earth would be God does not make it one.
Your intentions mean less that nothing. A horrible craftsman who tries to make a thousand spoons and fails has made a thousand not-spoons. He meant to make spoons, but he did not. He would be a liar to call them spoons.
The boy plopped himself onto the rock.
I will not put it back.
You twist your words to try and worm into my psyche, yet your poison words taste far too foul. You speak as if my goal was to create a thousand Ikolas. It was not. I was not making a thousand failed spoons, whatever a spoon is. I was making a thousand perfect not-spoons, and I do not call them spoons, for they are not that. I would be a liar to call the Phoeni Ikolas, for that is not what they are.
That, however
Ikola's beak jutted out at the slowly moving continent
Tell me. What is that in the shape of? You call it 'a god' yet it is not. You are the liar. It is not a god, it is not alive. It is Failure.
I did not I did not I did not! I never called it a god! It's pretending though, just like your birds.
And you did lie. You meant to make a thousand spoons, but made a thousand forks. If you call them anything but forks you are wrong! You are lying! LIAR LIAR LIAR!
The voice of the little boy had risen to a scream. But the woman but calm as ever. It seemed there was more of the observer in the subject than was imagined.
It is you, not I, that are attempting to hold both that I made spoons, that is 'ikolas' and that I did not make spoons. I surely cannot have both made and not made spoons. So which is it? Did I create Spoons? Or did I create Forks?
What you have created cannot hope to be anything, for it does not live. No more could a drop of water hope to be a tree. And Yet It Moves. You pervert life with this nonsense. I ask you one final time. Put it back. Please.
He screamed the phrase, but seemed to be enjoying himself.
Forks are ikolas. Honestly, if you cannot follow a simple metaphor, I have to wonder. You made ikolas and called them spoons. Or, well, Pheoni. You just can't do that! Or you could. But you'd be a liar.
And I will not put it back.
The boy stood up and grinned.
You put it back.
I understand. You have a deficient sense of self, and as you cannot identify the self, you cannot separate things from their appearances. Perhaps you will learn this in time. Perhaps that is the part of me that the Corruptor took from you when you were created. Perhaps it is for another reason.
But I do understand. I will do what you will not, for you do not know any better.
Ikola turned and faced the grey continent. Suddenly the world seemed to grow brighter, as strands of golden light flew from its body towards the continent, touching it here and there before returning to Ikola, drained of light, where they plunged into the radiant form and emerged a minute or two later bright as before.
And as the light touched the continent, it changed. All along the middle of the continent, a row of dormant mountains suddenly sprang to life, belching out lava before filling each caldera with a pool that bubbled and churned in a rhythmic motion. The light dove into the lava, and, unseen to all but gods who can see these things, directed tunnels through the rock, through which the magma flowed, heating the entirety of the beast. It even flowed into the legs of stone. As the magma traveled, the stone that it warmed grew a warm brown, and grasses and small shrubs appeared along the surface as ivy and other vines curled along all of the legs.
At the front of the continent was a broad bit of land that jutted out from the rest of it. A head. Two massive gemstones broke forth from the rock and the beast could see. The light created a series of holes to drain rain into specially prepared basins within the head, where it slowly heated from the magma. Periodically, the rain would turn to steam and emit a loud roaring noise through the holes themselves, a process that occured far more frequently when the beast was agititated (although what would agitate a continent was beyond even Ikola's ken.)
At the other end, a broad, tapered 'tail' reached back from the continent a fair ways, and here too, a transformation was occuring. Two tunnels, one of the right and one on the left side of the continent traveled down the tail after branching off of a single point. As the beast walked, the stone would shift, blocking off one or the other entrances into the two tunnels. Magma would pour into the open tunnel, and the earth itself would swell, swinging the tail in the opposite direction to the tube that was opened. The beast would take another step, the valve would shut, and as it drained, the other tube would begin to fill, swinging the tail the other way.
Ikola slumped, exausted but happy, as the beast lumbered off.
Let us call it Mahzvara, for you gave it a name like an object, to describe purpose but not identity, but it is not an object any longer.
3 PP (2 domain, 1 generate, 1 PP discount) Spawn Superior Beast: The Walking Continent now lives. Magma for blood, gemstones for eyes. Water for speech, and a moving tail to boot, all covered in grasses, shrubs and vines. Its name is Mahzvara.
I have no sense of self. For I am nothing. I am all of you for, someday, all will be me. I base on appearances for that is what they have. That is what they are. They are themselves, for who else could they be? That could be Morry, that one could be Ann. But they pretend at being you, and that's okay. But don't be a liar. Not you, please not you.
He sprang up onto a tall, pointed rock.
I like your work. Mahzvara, an excellent name. We are ourselves more than we are anything else, wouldn't you agree?
And with a sweep of the Umbrella, he was off.
Turning back to Ikola, "Friend you asked earlier that I was still with you. I had never left your side. I had just grown quiet. I sensed your agitation and so I stayed after Nos left."
Looking back out into the world, "We create things to keep us company and to make our surroundings better. We make things in our image so that we can more better enjoy that which we made."
With that Falrn turns and launches himself high into the air
Mist from the risen Mahzvara drifted through the air. If it could think, it would have thought about falling to the ground, but it was a little too lazy, a little too fine, to do so just yet. And so it continued to drift in the air, a cloud of it expanding away from the living earth. There was more there than just water, however. It was a secret that Nos hadn't yet had occasion to share, but there was a reason for his talking. The more his mouth touched words, the more words held power. This was still a weak power, an unseen and unknown thing, but so many words had swirled about betweek Ikola and Death that the power of words was thicker here. By whim (as the power came from Nos, who was whimsical at times) or by chance, there was a spark, and a drop of water that hung in the air changed. The drop of water cracked open, and little roots of liquid began to grow downwards. From the top of the drop of water, a little sprout reached for the stars, unfurling clear leaves as it went.
Heavier now, and far more than just a bit of mist, the seed of water drifted to the ground and was swept away by the oceanic tumults. As it drifted along the waves, it continued to grow uptil it was a large tree. There were impurities in the water, though, and a green haze spread through it. Algae, at first, but this condensed into something else. Leathery sheets of matter. Water wasn't suited for absorbing energy from above, but this plant was, and likewise, water couldn't soak up nutrients, but this plant could.
Its roots descended through the waves, deeply, as deeply as the ocean. They eventually found a place to hold and feed. Bulbs of seed appeared along its stalks, and these burst, spreading the plants across the ocean, and particularly around the base of the Seamounts.
There was power in words, in those days. And, in those days, if the words were said, a drop of water could indeed hope to be a tree.
God Block
1 PP Nourish (from Domain-travel): An "aquiferous" forest spread throughout the ocean and, in particular, around the seamounts. The trees in this forest are hybrids, using water for structure, bark, and to focus the light of the stars, while the kelp-like plant forms the core of it, absorbing the focused light (which is focused for better energy absorption), producing the actual seeds, and anchoring the entire thing down at the ocean floor. These "trees" do rise above the waves, in the vague shape of a conifer (get it? aquifer/conifer). Above the surface of the ocean, the plant has needles, but below it there are actual leafs, and the trunk/leaf combo extends until there isn't sufficient light to support it, at which point thick roots continue the rest of the way down.
0PP remaining... so... refresh? :P
1 PP Nourish (from Domain-travel): An "aquiferous" forest spread throughout the ocean and, in particular, around the seamounts. The trees in this forest are hybrids, using water for structure, bark, and to focus the light of the stars, while the kelp-like plant forms the core of it, absorbing the focused light (which is focused for better energy absorption), producing the actual seeds, and anchoring the entire thing down at the ocean floor. These "trees" do rise above the waves, in the vague shape of a conifer (get it? aquifer/conifer). Above the surface of the ocean, the plant has needles, but below it there are actual leafs, and the trunk/leaf combo extends until there isn't sufficient light to support it, at which point thick roots continue the rest of the way down.
0PP remaining... so... refresh? :P
Before Ikola knew it, an avalance of sickly pink, muscle, teeth and bone crashed into him, crushing him against the ground as it ripped, and tore, and rended, and maimed, and crushed, and most importantly... stole. With a huge, sickly claw, the god of corruption tore a knot of lights from the bird form of his Prey, tucking it away to be used later.
He had what he came for, but... why stop there? He had his Prey on the ropes... perhaps it was finally time to devour it once and for all.
Actions
1 PP Domain - Krulsk Attacks Ikola
3PP - Desperation lends Ikola strength. Giving 3PP to Ikola.
As the dust settled, Ikola grinned a feral grin of triumph and sped downwards into the canyon, only to be hit from the side by The Enemy, which tore into its golden lines once more, ripping several of them to pieces. It looked... nearly unharmed! Ikola's face grimaced in pain, and it spun to attack its foe in a flurry of striking lines, dripping golden ichor on the ground and the walls of the canyon, and some which even flew upwards out of the canyon and coated the earth. Ikola managed to score a few blows, solidified light clawing furrows into the mass of fleshy Corruption before it. Thick blood like oil flew and coated the walls and floor and surrounding area of the canyon as Krulsk counterattacked, drawing yet more Ichor. The two beings traded blow after blow as their blood soaked the land, until Ikola connected solidly and knocked the other against the wall of the canyon, sending rocks tumbling down on its form.
As Krulsk began to free itself, Ikola realized that Life was not going to win this fight. Already it felt the exaustion of battle, the strange faintness of a loss of lifeforce, and could see the line of broken and tattered strands from where Ikola had first been wounded.
And so the god fled-staggered-limped-flopped its way away from the canyon, seeking shelter, and support.
HELP!
The Canyon and surrounding lands, however, soaked up the blood of the two gods, and it changed. Trees began to poke forth from the earth, mighty oaks and tall pines. Animals bounded and froliked in the shade, and a mighty river flowed down the length of the canyon, fed by countless small waterfalls from ponds that suddenly dotted the forest floor.
But the stars dimmed and shone, and night came and went... and not the first night, or the second, but on the third morning, as the light grew bright, it was clear that everything had changed. Where had stood trees were now brittle and dead wood, looking as if they had been dessicating for a hundred years. Where there had been animals were now dessicated corpses. Where there had been ponds were now sunken holes. Where there had been a mighty river, now a tepid, poisonous swamp sat at the base of the canyon, bubbling slowly in the suddenly unbearable heat. Within minutes, the trees disintegrated into sand, and desert spread as far as eye could see.
In time... this time four days... night fell, morning came, and trees pushed from the earth, underground springs pushed the silt and sand away into a newly flowing river, and animals appeared from seemingly nowhere.
1 PP: Command Land: Dig a canyon into the earth.
1 PP: Nourish Land: form a forest around said canyon. This forest magically converts into a desert at undefined intervals... might be a week, might be a month, might be twelve hours... maybe. When it is a forest, it is the most... abundantly foresty forest ever. The land is called the mirage valley. (I reserve the right to change this name...)
1 PP: Harm Land: form a desert around said canyon. This desert magically converts into a forest at undefined intervals... but when it transforms into a desert, it kills all life that is not *very* resistant to dessication. Also called the Uncertain Canyon.
The battle though... oh the battle, what a thrill! What a rush! Every blow he made filled him with such triumph, every hit he recieved caused adrenalin to flood through him. This... this was perfection. Battle, strife, he loved every moment of it. Even as his breath came in gasps, as he was forced to throw rocks off of himself, as he had to reform himself again and again to maintain a form that wasn't just a puddle of ooze and malice... he'd never felt so alive!
"Help comes for you not my Prey!" Krulsk taunted, the first words he had spoken to his ancient Enemy. "This time you shall not escape! This time- AUUUUUUUUUUUGH!!"
No no no! More trees! These ones coming out of nowhere and piercing his body with their wood, and leaves, and PAIN! The god of Corruption managed to push himself clear of the cursed woods, but he collapsed onto the ground, a blackened, wounded, scarred mass of bubbling pink flesh and impotent rage. He would DAMN each and every tree in existence to the abyss!
The cry was faint. Falrn barely heard it over the wind and beating of his wings.
He turned his head. Ikola was in danger! He saw a darkness and watched as Ikola started staggering out into the open. Letting an earth shattering roar, he wheeled around. Falrn flew faster than he knew how. As he beat his wings, a shockwave burst from his body.
Ikola took a few more hits before pushing his attacker away again. Diving down, Falrn barely pulled up enough to avoid the sudden appearance of trees. Looking around for his friend, he spotted him off to the side. Falrn wheeled around one more time after finding a clearing to land in, and made his way to Ikola
"Are you ok friend?"
Put bluntly, Friend Falrn. No, no I am not. Please... take me away from here.
The scarred god draped itself lightly over the dragon god's back, weighing little more than a feather.
But here... Omus saw another, a god whom he had glimpsed many a time from afar - the god of many heads and many hands. He - if any of them could be called a "he" - seemed to be seeking something. Omus waited, and watched.
God Block
PP remaining: 1 general + 1 Time
PP remaining: 1 general + 1 Time
Thank you.
What is going on?
Where am I?
Who am I?
"Proprietas. You are Proprietas."
Propietas, he said tis word, and they sounded right.
Is this a forest?
Forest, and everything around him muttered "forest," and they kept muttering, and buzzing, and swarming.
He couldn't take it.
SHUT UP, but it continued
SHUT UP! and it quieted
SHUT UUP!!! and it was silent, not a mutter, no buzz in earshot, swarming ceased to continue.
What is this power, I... I have complete control.
Bow to me now! and all he saw dropped obediently, and immediately
"You are welcome friend. I fear we have not seen the last of him though."
As the rain poured around them, Falrn got to thinking. He is fast, but he can not be every where.
"I wonder how far has he spread I wonder. He is not good for this world. I must send agents out to investigate, but first I need someone or something there to help protect this world for when I can not be there."
Taking a bit of essence from himself, he cast it into the wind. Watching it take flight and transform into long serpentine creatures, he was pleased. "They should do well I think. I call them drakes."
Looking back at Ikola, "He will continue to hound you unless we do something. He seemed to be wounded by those......trees they were? I think we should make more of them. Make it difficult for him to come after you."
god block
3PP Spawn (1PP general + 1PP Domain +1 PP generate): Spawn forth drakes to help protect the world from Krulsk's influence.
3PP Spawn (1PP general + 1PP Domain +1 PP generate): Spawn forth drakes to help protect the world from Krulsk's influence.
For Joran
I don't know when I'll be posting next, so... just tuck me somewhere safe and go about your business
I don't know when I'll be posting next, so... just tuck me somewhere safe and go about your business
OOC
Please note, this is the origin of the "birds and the bees"
What are you, and what are you doing here?
Falrn lifted his head as he was being addressed and looked to the newcomer.
"I am Falrn, Guardian of this world. Who might you be strange one?"
Timmy
Sorry about that! I've been a little.........preoccupied past couple of days! xD
Sorry about that! I've been a little.........preoccupied past couple of days! xD
Map:
Story:
Krulsk realizes that he faces a significant dillema. While he is able to create, he is unable to corrupt to his liking without some sort of raw power to corrupt, specificaly that of his great enemy, Ikola. He sets out into the world to find the God. Ikola, however, had found Death, along with Falrn. Ikola and Death fall into a heated discussion about forms and shapes, which culminates in Death creating a massive not-living continent. Ikola grows angry and eventually gives the continent life, turning it into the mighty Mahzvara (which looks like a massive dinosaur made of stone). As Death leaves, suddenly Krulsk finds Ikola and the two fight a bitter, long and vicious fight, tearing a canyon in the earth and dousing the land with their blood until a strange place known as the Mirage Valley comes to be. Ikola barely escapes with its life, and will sport a long scar on one wing for some time, while Krulsk is distracted by his truest mortal enemy: trees. Falrn arrives to protect Ikola, and a new God, born from the energies of the fight and named Proprietas approaches the two of them.
Meanwhile, Loki works to create Dagon, while the sentient races of the world begin to take shape, specifically the Sahaguin spreading and growing in size and number, and the Kalamar race appearing deep beneath the ocean surface, and Nos discovers the spiritual realm and raises mountains of water in the ocean depths.
God Stats: DONE NOW.
Level/Domain Slots/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 3/Life:2 /1/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /1/0/0/1
Death. 4/Death:1 War:1 Earth:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/2/0
Umi. 3/Ocean:2 NEW DOMAIN/1/0/0/0
Nos. 3/Knowledge:1 Travel:1/0/1/1/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 3/Time:1 Evolution:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/1/0/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 2/Protection:1/1/0/0/0
Loki: 2/Chaos:1/0/0/0/0
Order: 2/Order:1/0/0/0/0
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Nerdzul: Spend some PP and you'll get included
God Block and Actions
PP: 1 PP + 1 Time carried over, plus 3 PP, 1 Time, 1 Evolution and 1 Impose... cool!
1 Time PP - Harm
Omus ages the land directly beneath the stars, allowing their heat to scorch it. A ring of desert in a great circle along the surface of the world forms, in which most non-marine life withers and dies. However, some few life-forms adapt. Straggly plants fight for survival, while a few insect and reptilians manage to find an existance in the wastelands.
In addition, the currents created by the warm air provide weather patterns around the globe.
PP remaining: 4 General, 1 Time, 1 Evolution and 1 Impose
PP: 1 PP + 1 Time carried over, plus 3 PP, 1 Time, 1 Evolution and 1 Impose... cool!
1 Time PP - Harm
Omus ages the land directly beneath the stars, allowing their heat to scorch it. A ring of desert in a great circle along the surface of the world forms, in which most non-marine life withers and dies. However, some few life-forms adapt. Straggly plants fight for survival, while a few insect and reptilians manage to find an existance in the wastelands.
In addition, the currents created by the warm air provide weather patterns around the globe.
PP remaining: 4 General, 1 Time, 1 Evolution and 1 Impose
He had been slivering for how long? Minutes? Hours? Centuries? He didn't know... all he knew that he was in pain. Agonizing, blistering pain from those damned trees. He had won. He had defeated his Prey, and torn him apart to claim his prize. A shard of life itself from which to create. And yet... why did he feel so horrible if he won?! This was no victory! His Prey knew his weakness! His Prey had scarred him and hurt him so horribly! His Prey... his Prey... his Prey!!!
He... had not seen anything for quite some time. He had not been far from the ocean, had he? And yet still he slivered... not a thing to see for a long way around. He... was heading the wrong way, but there was no way in which he could turn around now. He would bubble, and scar, and hurt, and be maimed, and injured, and infuriate, and vexed, and simmer, and be in pain for an eternity. He had no strength to create water, if he was even capable of such an act. He did not even have the strength to use the prize he had fought so hard to achieve... what was the point? He could create beasts to die in the nothing. He could create plans that would hurt him in the nothing. He could corrupt the nothing into being a slightly dirtier nothing. But nothing would come of it even if he had the strength to do such an act.
He was so... furious! How dare his Prey escape him and fight back! How are he lose so much in winning! How dare the world... how dare the gods... how dare himself...
Managing to form at least a form vaguely resembling his usual one, his entire upper body formed itself into a mouth and screamed with a force he had never felt inside of him before. A scream that echoed through the sky of rage, and anger, and hate, and pain. In rage, and frustration, he reformed his hulking arms and smashed them into the ground, making the earth shake. Then again, and again, the earth shuddering and cracking under his wrath. How dare they! How dare it! How dare he! How dare they all! How dare fate do this to him! How dare fate exist! How dare fate not exist so he could smear it!
The ground finally gave in, spreading out in a huge network of splintered cracks before simply... collapsing. And rising. And spreading, and letting red goo ooze out from the surface. Bubbling hot, oily goo that singed just to be near. It was like... an ocean of red, except it wasn't an ocean because there was lots of land. A river of red? No it was like... an ocean of red yes, but with little islands of flat ground and the occassional mound of more solid ground that didn't drift about on it.
Who cared? This liquid... it might... Krulsk oozed into a stream of the stuff. Welcoming the cleansing burning from the painful burning of the horrible trees.
Actions
3PP Command Land - Krulsk creates the Fields of Fire, a huge section of land that is basically lava with 'islands' of solid rock of various sizes jutting out, along with multiple 'ice flows' or 'glaciers' of flat earth that flow with the lava currents.
0/Corruption:2 /1/0/0/1
3PP Command Land - Krulsk creates the Fields of Fire, a huge section of land that is basically lava with 'islands' of solid rock of various sizes jutting out, along with multiple 'ice flows' or 'glaciers' of flat earth that flow with the lava currents.
0/Corruption:2 /1/0/0/1
God Block
1PP Command (1 Generic) - Island: Loki creates a small island, large enough to hold and support a modest sized village.
2PP Forge (1 Domain-Chaos, 1 Generic) - Ring of Twisted Ways: Loki creates a mobius strip out of bone. This artifact repels Lawful auras. The more lawful a creature is, the stronger this force is. Lawful creatures that somehow force there way in are crushed by this, causing ongoing damage as long as they remain in the field of effect. Neutral creatures are also repeled, though not damaged, by this effect.
1PP Command (1 Generic) - Island: Loki creates a small island, large enough to hold and support a modest sized village.
2PP Forge (1 Domain-Chaos, 1 Generic) - Ring of Twisted Ways: Loki creates a mobius strip out of bone. This artifact repels Lawful auras. The more lawful a creature is, the stronger this force is. Lawful creatures that somehow force there way in are crushed by this, causing ongoing damage as long as they remain in the field of effect. Neutral creatures are also repeled, though not damaged, by this effect.
Yes, I am Ikola and Life. Other Proprietas, what is it that you desire? For if there is one thing that is true about the divinities we are, we all desire something.
One of the wings gently brushed the back of the dragon, and a whispered voice worked its way into the god's head.
Thank you, Friend Falrn.
You wish... control? Forgive me, Other Proprietas, but that does not leave me feeling comfortable. What do you mean 'I wish control'? Do you wish control over friend Falrn and myself?
Stepping to the side so that Ikola had plenty of room to manuver, he relaxed his stance briefly.
Looking over the new god, "I fear that is impossible. There are others here that seek to undo order and control. And We particularly do not wish to be controlled."
The strands of light pulsed in thought for a moment, then brightened suddenly.
However, I would help you control another. I have several Enemies already, you see. Would this interest you?
"If you seek to control, then I think the ones you should start with are named Loki and Krulsk. I would think that it would be difficult to control the uncontrollable though."
Nos-Hundred-Hands moved across the sky, his hands carrying him on the upper airs, his legs forgotten. It was so much handier to just use his arms, he had so many of them.
One head, the left, was trained on the world below, watching the adoings that occurred there. He saw Ikola and Krulsk fight, though it didn't bother him. Why should it? He had yet to come to a decision regarding this hurting business. It felt like Ikola and the others formed their opinions based on instinct, instinct that had no basis in experience, rather than careful consideration and proper knowledge. If he had thought it truly a bad thing, he would have helped, but as of yet he thought hurting was neither good nor bad, just something to yet be understood.
The other head, his right, watched his path carefully, so that he might know where he was going.
The third head, his central one, twisted about, searching for the odd presence he felt. Then he became aware of someone watching. The hairs, which he didn't have (as of yet having no idea what hair was), on the back of his head stood up, his skin prickled. Nos looked and found the odd god who seemed to prefer to stay up high in the sky.
Nos changed his path and approached this god. "Halllooooo," the three heads said in unison. "I'm Nos, I am. Will you tell me your name? Oh yes, please do, that would be wonderful."
OOC-Fred
This would be Ormus, if that wasn't clear
This would be Ormus, if that wasn't clear
OOC, For everybody
Just to clarify, both the Sahaugin and Fish-Men of Dagon have the ability to live on land/water though they will mostly be encountered in the water unless someone manages to enter the island. On the island, the Sahaugin are rarely (if ever) encountered in the village. They mostly stick to the lands around it since they are unable to hide their true nature, as the Fish-Men can. The Fish-Men appear 'human' within the settlement, and attempt to lure unsuspecting visitors to the island so that they can be sacrificed to Dagon. Check out the H.P. Lovecraft movie, Dagon for reference. Full movie is here on youtube, check it out:
I will assist you against Loki and Krulsk, but I'm assuming the controlling the uncontrollable will be difficult, so I shall require some assistance.
As he said this, a circle of light, centered around Proprietas formed, and quickly enclosed, finally forming around his head, creating a halo. If you looked at the halo, you would see on your right, his mood, and on your left, your mood.
Now, where are these beings you require the controlling of.
Hmmmm... Friends. Maybe I can share control. But just us three, no one else, not ever!
Perhaps, you all would enjoy to rule with me, as a team?
[SPOILER=God Block]2 pp: Forge: My halo, which displays people's mood, using the standard mood ring colors, and grants limited control over mortals, and allows me to implant images into another god's mind [SPOILER=OOC]I intend to use only halos as artifacts. Either creating more, or empowering old ones. Also not sure I'm correctly understanding the PP system, and believe I may be spending more pp than I have.
I would not be opposed to a partnership. Perhaps we should also include others of like-minded persuasion. Perhaps that being we created together, Friend Falrn. He might be amenable... he and Loki certainly did not get along. Perhaps Not-Friend Umi as well.
Umi reached out for nearby seawater and pulled it. He began to compress it into a ball using his tentacles, his mental willpower, and divine energy. It worked. He wound up with a small orb of a shiny white substance. It was cold to the touch. Ice, thought Umi, I shall call it ice. What a delightful thing he had made. He must teach the kalmar ice-shaping.
It didn't take long to return to Kalamari trench. The kalmar had built up a few respectable towns, all of them located in the trench. Umi chose a single kalmar from the largest of the towns, and projected into his mind the concept of ice shaping, and how to go about doing it by drawing on Umi's reserves of power. This squid would become a prophet.
Next, Umi dropped his orb of ice into the midst of the kalmar. Perhaps they would find a use for it. Perhaps not.
Actions
2 PP Craft (2 Generic PP) - The concept of ice, frozen water, is formalized as a domain, and then immediately claimed by Umi.
1 PP Forge (1 Generate PP) -
The Orb of Everlasting Ice is created. This roughly the size of a tennis ball, this sphere of ice will never, ever melt. In addition, it gives its bearer a more profound control over the art of cyromancy.
2 PP Guide (1 Ice PP, 1 Generic PP) - The kalmar are taught the art of cyromancy by Umi. This is a form a divine magic in which the caster channels energy from the sea god into creating and shaping ice. Rather than chanting prayers or spells, a cyromancer must gurgle in complex patterns in order for his magic to take effect. In the nation of the kalmar, accomplished cyromancers double as priests, which triple as political leaders.
Umi. 0/Ocean:2 Ice:0/0/0/0/
"Name?" he responded. "What does a name matter? Hmm... you ask deep questions, many-headed one. I am Omus. Is that wonderful? No. It simply is. Do you have a name? I cannot imagine it would be wonderful for you to tell me... though perhaps useful."
The old one was animated as he recounted to his people the ancient story. When he spoke as the starfish, he put his hands in front of him and had his fingers pantomimed the motions of such creatures. And when he spoke at the young Sahagin, he puffed his chest and mimed the movements of the spear. In a falsetto he spoke as the boy, "And how is it you are able to speak, creature, your kind are simple organisms, yet you posses such an ability?"
"You're telling it wrong," a youngling interrupted.
"Hmm?" the old one asked, taken back. He looked around at those gathered to see who had spoken.
"You are telling it wrong," the youngling repeated. "Nobody asks how animals talk in old stories. Not in Jetsam and the Treestalk, not in Silvertooth and the Five Sharks, not in Rumplef'tang'pahzlbeep."
The old one sat back and frowned. "Well, in this story they do."
"Nu uh, they just don't."
"Bah, fine, just sit down and shut up."
The old one closed his eyes and tried to remember where he was. "Ah yes," he said. "The young hunter had slung his trident over his shoulder and had answered the starfish: 'The great god decreed that we shall establish ourselves and defend these waters against the forces of Order. Only Chaos shall remain dominant. It is in Chaos' name that we shall feed.' With a dart of his hand and a flash, the young hunter took his spear and killed a passing fish."
"Then," the old one continued with his tale...
~The Tale of the Hunter and the Starfish~
The starfish shivered and wobbled and the waters reverberated with its chuckle. "Chaos orders its creatures to defend against Order?!"
The creature chuckled and laughed, its arms lifting from the rock against which it was attached, and they flowed about him like waves in the ocean. "Surely Chaos has not told his children to make order in an effort to defend against Order! Does he not wish to tear down that which is built up? If you eat of me and renounce you allegiance to all who would order you under them, then my flesh will give you the power of chaos, the power to tear down the world."
OOC
If you are curious, the starfish is just a vicar of Nos. Think "serpent in the garden." Though, there's no forbidden fruit...
Thinking on this, and what else he thought needed to be done. "There is still much to be done. With his last attack Krulsk will have gotten stronger. We need to get stronger also. I think my friends, that the spread of those....trees I think they were called will help tremendously!"
Nos bobbed happily at Omus's answer. Some hands danced in the air, others clapped, and yet others searched, as if needing something to hold. It pleased him to learn something new, though the name struck a chord in his memory. "Omus? Omus... hmm... I have heard that name before, I have, yes. Oh, yes, are you the one called Cannot-Fit-Into-His-Coporeal-Form-Due-To-His-Ego?"
Nos, too excited at the prospect of discourse, plowed onwards, not caring that he hadn't given Omus time to answer. "Of course names are wonderful. They're names, aren't they? Splendid things, simply splendid. Don't let the fact that a name is fool you. Being is itself rather wonderful, isn't it? It is. Much better than not being, true, true."
A few of his own hands nudged him and Nos looked at his other heads. They jerked in Omus' direction and the central head nodded in agreement. "Now," he said, "let us get to the core of the matter. Oh yes, let us."
All three heads looked at Omus and only at Omus. Nos's many hands stilled and formed a chair for the god to sit on. Several quivered with the desire to take notes, but notes hadn't been created yet, nor did he have anything to take notes on. But regardless, each waited with coiled energy. Nos cleared each throat carefully, then said, "Please, tell me everything you know. Start from the beginning and when you get to the end, stop. Then, I will share everything I know, yes? Oh yes, yes. This will be an informative, pleasant exchange, I just know it will. Don't you? So let's get started."
His heads nodded vigorously in agreement.
OOC for Nos
If it's OK with you, I'd rather some form of hydromancy, as Sahuagin priests can contol water, and the race as a whole would benefit from it more. Check the OOC thread, Defiling may be a better option. Also, I need to work up something for their 'feeding and bloodlust.'
If it's OK with you, I'd rather some form of hydromancy, as Sahuagin priests can contol water, and the race as a whole would benefit from it more. Check the OOC thread, Defiling may be a better option. Also, I need to work up something for their 'feeding and bloodlust.'
Omus gazed at Nos with his unfathomable eyes.
"The nature of time is not for most to comprehend. You ask me to start from the beginning, and stop at the end? Yet I was here before there was a "before", and shall remain when even the memory of "after" is no more. This weight, I alone must bear"
As Omus talked, Nos's curiosity frequently got the better of him and he interjected questions.
"I am the god of the flowing stream..." Omus said.
"Wouldn't that actually be Umi? Does he know that you're claiming to be him?" Nos's left head asked.
"...the god of the growing tree..." said Omus.
"Wait, that's Ikola, yes?" Nos's right head asked.
"...the god of cycles and wheels..."
"Has anyone even made any unicycles, bicycles, or tricycles yet?" Nos's central head asked.
"... the neverending, repeating nature of the universe."
"Which universe? This one, or some other, hereto yet undefined universe?"
"I am the god of ashes and dust."
"Oh? You don't look very ashy or dusty. No you don't, not at all. Are you sure of this? Why would you want to control dust and ash, anyways? Doesn't seem very useful or necessary."
"I am the god of that which has gone before, the god of that which is, and the god of that which is yet to be."
At this Nos's curiosity came to a halt as he tried to untangled what had been said to him. "You're lacking the object of your clauses. An ablative, maybe? I don't think it's a dative, no I do not. In short, gone before what, that which is what, and which is yet to be what?"
Nos looked back into Omus's eyes happily, and, while he waited for answers, he wondered which of his many arms he should use to define what a fathom is. After all, when it came to fathoming, he was the one who had the most arms to fathom with.
"The nature of time is not for most to comprehend."
"Oh," Nos said, dejectedly. "Well, that is too bad. I'd have thought that as a god of time, you'd comprehend time. But don't get down on yourself, there's no shame in that. Why, the god of life couldn't properly describe what hurting is. I guess a lot of gods have that problem. I'll just have to figure time out on my own, then. Don't worry, though, I'm good at that... I think... maybe... well, I haven't really done it before, but we'll see."
"You ask me to start from the beginning, and stop at the end? Yet I was here before there was a 'before,' and shall remain when even the memory of 'after' is no more."
"Oh good, then maybe you can tell me what that is?" Nos pointed with thirty arms at the Elder Thing, floating uniquivocable in the void, with unseen eyes and unknown ways.
"This weight, I alone must bear"
"Why?"
Alarmed, Ikola burst heavenwards with a squak of outrage and fear. What was happening? The trees burst apart into dust... no... SAND, settling onto the land in a thick blanket. Ikola watched as a deer ran from the onrushing wave of desertification, and reached out to grab the beast and lift it to safety just as the wave hit.
The deer screamed once, bleating its terror into the face of the God, then the moisture was sucked from the body and a deer-mummy grimaced at Ikola with a leering stare of abject terror. Ikola started and the deer fell to the earth and exploded into a pile of dust and bone fragments.
And yet, something lingered. Something just out of sight seemed to still be within its grasp. Ikola tugged, felt a returning tug and allowed its mind to be drawn down the shimmering line it was grasping.
In the Spiritual Realm
Ikola gasped. Here, the forest yet lived, a strange pulsing... shadow would be the wrong word, but perhaps 'afterimage' would do. A pulsing afterimage that grew dimmer and dimmer with each passing moment. Ikola watched as the devastation that had befallen the forest began to move through this place as well, the trees fading and flickering, the animals growing dimmer and dimmer.
No... I cannot allow this... Ikola muttered to itself.
No... I cannot allow this... Ikola muttered to itself.
"You chatter too much."
He had seen other races swimming about the ocean. The one he had watched Loki create, as well as another, similar one. He had sensed a sort of divine presence near the second, and decided against getting to close. He had found an underwater forest. It was quite amazing really, stretching from the seabed to the surface. And the water above it stretched upwards as well, creating tall spires. But now Umi had left the sea behind, in order to investigate the land.
The tentacled one regurgitated his sea sphere, commanded it to expand, and slipped inside. Just because he was leaving the sea didn't mean he couldn't bring a part of it with him.
Umi began to wander, and before long he came across... [i]Order, was it? Greetings.[/i] He had found the shimmering creature. The one that had stood by Ikola and Farln before the battle that never erupted. The one that had elicited quite a reaction from Loki. What was it doing here?
"It seems that there is one who watches the watchers," Omus mused. "I wonder, does another, greater being watch it watching us?"
The voice bounced out in front of them, and took a shape, the same shape to all those observing, that of a man, all in black, carrying an umbrella. He scratched his chin with the point of the umbrella, which happened the be wrapped in bandages. That is to say, the chin was, not the umbrella. Wrapped in bandages, that is. In fact all of his was wrapped in bandages, save, as far as they could tell, the bits of his that were already wrapped in black clothing.
Him, he's just watching for now. But when he stops watching, oh boy. You better watch out!
And Death stuck out his umbrella to Nos, pointed end first.
Jiminiy cricket! I know who you are. You are Nos. I'm Death.
And Death turned to Omus.
And you are?
Ahhh... Krulsk oozed back out of the magma , shaking the last sizzling renmants off of himself as his burnt, scarred skin, blackened bone and flaming eyes began to repair themselves. Much better... this pain was pleasant. Unlike the burning inflicted upon him by those cursed trees. But now he had a paradise, free of all that accursed vegetation. A world of fire, and brimstone, and heat, and pain, and death.
Yet... he looked around him. That wasn't right now, was it? The world was oh so much more interesting when it had living things to deal with... but what could live here? Where no plants could live, this world of flame and stone. He needed... something. Something basic. Living things needed other living things to survive, so he needed something basic that could survive off of... something here. Something that wasn't plant life! But what could be eaten other than... hmmm... well if this was a world of fire and stone, perhaps stone itself could be the food?
Time to use his new toy... an essence of the life god himself. By using to turn stone to flesh and crash... aha!
Beasts... beasts that could survive in this hostile place. No, a beast, but with two forms... a juvenille, lizard like version that when old enough retreated into the rocks to become a more hulking, herd like animal. And they devoured rocks... a perfect start for an ecosystem without plants. Or docile herbivores...
Actions
1PP (Generate) Spawn Rockbeasts - Rockbeasts take two forms. The juvenille version varies in size from a small lizard to a moderate sized dog, is quick, and devours rocks constantly. When it eats enough, it burrows into the rock and hibernates, until emerging in its second form. Its second form is a hulking beast not unlike a rhino, which is slow and grazes rather than devours rock. Both forms look to be made of stone, but it's actually simply camoflauge on top of natural armor.
1PP (Generate) Spawn Rockbeasts - Rockbeasts take two forms. The juvenille version varies in size from a small lizard to a moderate sized dog, is quick, and devours rocks constantly. When it eats enough, it burrows into the rock and hibernates, until emerging in its second form. Its second form is a hulking beast not unlike a rhino, which is slow and grazes rather than devours rock. Both forms look to be made of stone, but it's actually simply camoflauge on top of natural armor.
The basics were here, Ikola felt. To keep LIFE living past when it died. The fact that these things around her were still present in this place when they had turned to dust in the 'physical realm' gave the god the most important thing of all: Time to intervene. The loss of their physical selves clearly had caused these beings to die on a level more profound than the mere loss of their bodies. Death was claiming their souls as well.
Death Cannot Win. Ikola said solemnly.
~The Physical World~
The golden light of the bird-god grew brighter and brighter until both Falrn and Proprietas were forced to look away. When the light faded, Ikola was gone.
~A place~
It was dark and cramped, and Ikola found it difficult to breathe. Laboriously, the god spread its wings in the darkness, unreality rippling away from the filaments until there was a small pocket of reality around it. Ikola flapped, and the reality spread, unreality fleeing from the winds generated by the God. Ikola flapped to exaustion, pushing out this new place as far as it could. Wings spasming and fraying from exaustion, Ikola wrapped them around its form and floated, resting for a short time, allowing its wings time to reform and wincing as they tugged on the scar where the Enemy had viciously attacked.
But while its body rested, its mind sculpted the nascent reality around her, still malleable and recently-formed.
Around Ikola a wide open space formed, ringed with white marble railings the formed a dodecahedron. Beyond the railings, separated from one another by gaps bridged by marble spans stretched nine bare granite floors as far as the eye could see (and far beyond that as well). Ikola turned its attention upwards, and a hundred feet above, another dodecahedron formed, and the same floors erupted outwards from it. Ikola looked downward, and one appeared a hundred feet below. Then two hundred, then three hundred, and onward, the pattern propagating now without the encouragement of the God.
Ikola paused and then spread its wings and flew to the edge of the open space in the middle of the plane, turned, and with a screech that unleashed its power into the new reality, created one final fixture.
A massive column hurtled downward from wherever the ceiling was (for there was in this place some sort of ceiling) and towards the floor (for there was also a floor, although not even the wisest sages could say exactly how many floors existed here). But the column was not smooth. Channels in the pillar carried water that danced with the very power of the God of Life, traveling down in a never-ending rivulet that pooled here and there (specifically once each 'floor' in a broad shallow bowls that glinted with gems and precious metals, and which never were empty. Caves dotted the massive pillar as well, seemingly at random, but always several per floor, although the exact number varied somewhat.
For I cannot bring all the life here myself. It must be called here by others, intelligent beings who may do my work in my absence. They shall be my ministering angels.
And with a further expenditure of energy, which flowed from the body of the bird with blinding intensity, it was so. From the small caves emerged creatures that glowed in a faint homage to the light of their creator. Roughly two feet tall, and buoyed aloft by wide feathered wings, the creatures came towards Ikola, each looking at the god quizically from small human faces with large eyes that peered out from amongst a scruff of feahers as they landed on the railings about Ikola, gripping tight with prehensile feet. Suddenly one of the angels vanished, and re-emerged with a faintly luminescent object... a soul. It led/carried the soul to the column and the waiting bowl, and the soul dipped itself into the pooled water. Glowing with new intensity, the soul floated away and settled on the ground beyond one of the railings.
Suddenly a wild chittering filled the air as a squirrel, re-embodied, but freed of the troublesome requirements of the natural world (such as eating) cried out in delight, and, body-and-soul joined, began to explore as more and more angels vanished, each returning with more and more souls. Grasses began to spread, and the souls of several trees dipped themselves into the pools and began to grow, slowly turning the nearby regions to the pillar into vibrant habitats.
Ikola smiled, Death had not won, nor would ever win as long as The World Beyond still existed.
~The Physical Realm~
With a *pop* Ikola reappeared beside Proprietas and Falrn. Only a few minutes had passed.
Forgive me. This issue has been dealt with. Death has lost.
3 PP(1 generate, 2 domain): Forge Plane: The World Beyond is the afterlife (or at least the only one so far!) for the world, a place where Life continues forever and the needs of life that necessitate death do not exist. Souls and Bodies are joined here, and not separated by the Physical and Spiritual Realms as they are in actual reality. TWB consists of a countably infinite number of levels of marble, upon which the not-dead life is allowed to grow and flourish. At the center of these levels is a large (several hundred feet across) dodecahedron cutout,dominated in the center by a massive marble pillar that stretches the entire length of TWB. Divine water filled with the power of Life flows in carved grooves down this pillar, collecting in bowls at every level. Souls which appear in TWB begin their new lives by dipping into these bowls to allow them to reconstitute a body. Caves also dot this central Pillar: NOTE: I am placing one of my domain PP into this river. If you wish to use it, talk to me about it. If I like the idea, and its domain-appropriate (of course), I'll donate the PP stored in the water to the cause.
3 PP( all generic): Shape Race: Angels. Angels basically look like oversized owls with human faces and prehensile feet (they can use tools by holding them in their feet). Their primary role is to guide each newly-bodyless soul from the spiritual realm to TWB. It *should* be noted that at the current time, there are not nearly enough angels to *actually* do this in a timely manner (nor is it ever clear there will EVER be enough angels), so it should be some concern to mortals who care about the afterlife that unless they act to preserve the souls of those that die (somehow), there is no guarantee that an angel will reach them in time.
1 empower /1 Combat remaining.
As the Hunter ate the flesh of the starfish, the power contained in it changed the Sahagin, but not in the physical realm. Rather, its spirit grew and became more similar to Loki's own, tying the creature closer to that god. The power of creation always seeks release, but the physical form of the Hunter limited it, like an ocean trying to flow through a crack.
The sahagin's mind also expanded as new knowledge found its way in. The power of creation that he could access was limited, but the knowledge he gained let him understand how to access that power.
The Hunter reached out and touched a nearby mountain. Though the power was of Loki, it was the power of chaos, of order broken. The fealty he had for his god was burned away, allowing the power of creation to trickle through him and into the mountain. Order was driven out. The mountain was no longer bound by gravity, and in began to drift through the waves. But order was driven further away, and the water began to flow through the mountain, as it was no longer bound to the laws of space. And still order was driven away more, releasing the mountain from the confines of time. It existed in all ages as if in a single moment, unchanging. But the power of chaos overwhelmed even that, and the earth could no longer suffer to be ordered as as mountain, ordered as earth, and it dissolved into mud, silt, dust, and then nothing.
God block
1 pp command (impose) - Lokasenna: Nos teaches the Sahagin chaotic magic. It is genetic, so only this character's line can use it, though by now there should be a number of sahagin who are descended from him. None have his level of power, though (it's been diluted over the generations). The magic works by burning an interpersonal connection (including those to the gods), which produces one of several effects, listed below. The strength of the connection influences the power or duration of effect. Once burned, the individuals no longer care for one another or connect the person to memories involving them. They can establish a new connection, but nothing can bring back the old. If an individual has no or insufficient connections, they will harm or kill themself.
Users only get one of the following powers (unless they some how breed back the power of the Hunter). These powers break the proper order of things. If anyone has more ideas along these lines, they can still be added.
1) break the order of gravity. The weight and time are influenced by the connection and the user's innate strength.
2) break the order of time. Size, importance, and duration are effected.
3) break the order of space. Complexity, density, area, and duration are effected.
4) break the order of matter. Causes things to dissolve into chaos. Size and complexity are influences
3 General, 1 Knowledge, 1 Travel, 1 Generate, 0 Impose
Users only get one of the following powers (unless they some how breed back the power of the Hunter). These powers break the proper order of things. If anyone has more ideas along these lines, they can still be added.
1) break the order of gravity. The weight and time are influenced by the connection and the user's innate strength.
2) break the order of time. Size, importance, and duration are effected.
3) break the order of space. Complexity, density, area, and duration are effected.
4) break the order of matter. Causes things to dissolve into chaos. Size and complexity are influences
3 General, 1 Knowledge, 1 Travel, 1 Generate, 0 Impose
"Death!" Nos said happily. "Mother... Er... Father... Er... You!" Nos still wasn't clear on the distinction, especially since Krulsk had told him that what he had thought the difference was wasn't really the difference. "Pray, tell, have you learned anything new since last we met?"
Omus's words, however, made no sense to Nos. He had explored the world, seen things die, and yet there was neither hand nor finger of Omus's presence. Death had the airs of a hunter about itself. It didn't seem to be the sort to passively sit by and wait for others.
But... this god also claimed it was time yet didn't know anything about time -- for Nos didn't consider that one might know and not share -- and it said it was life and water and death. Nos knew these claims to be false...
Knowledge nearly discounted Omus. He hadn't shared any new, valid information. Rocks seemed about as important as this one. Yet, his curiosity about the Elder Thing was a saving quality, so Nos pondered Omus's claims more.
They weren't true... But wait, what a wonderful concept. There could only be one truth, but there could be countless non-truths! Oh, there could then be so much more to learn!
"Oh clever!" Nos interjected. He embraced Omus in a hug. Truly, it was a wondrous, marvelous hug, for he had the arms to do it perfectly. "Ho ho ho, Time indeed! You're not time, you're not-truths. You're lies! How simply marvelous. Oh, so beautifully clever. Is your name even Omus? Oh what am I saying, of course it isn't. You wouldn't be Lies if it was. Krulsk must be right, your name must he He-who-cannot-fit-into-his-corporeal-form-due-to-his-ego! Oh clever, clever indeed. I've found you out, now!"
~Meanwhile...~
Omus becomes aware that, with the advent of chaos magic, mortals are interfering with the flow of time. He has nothing against a health degree of chaos, but he guards his own domain carefully. Thus, he arranges the time flow so that it can only be altered according to his own rules.
God Block
1 Impose + 1 Time: Craft (Chronomancy)
Omus formalises the concept of Chronomancy. This makes it very difficult for the Sahaguin to use Chaos Magic to manipulate time, at least safely, without also using Chronomancy.
At its most basic level, Chronomancy allows users to stretch the flow of time, speeding things up or slowing them down.
More advanced Chronomancers can also see a short distance into the past or future, age things, or slow the passage of time to do the opposite.
The most powerful Chronomancers can send themselves or others short distances into the future or even potentially the past.
However, Chronomancy comes with its own risks. The unfathomable nature of time is such that those who use powerful Chronomancy without due care risk damaging their minds and sending themselves mad. Chronomancy performed incorrectly can also result in several Chronomantic mishaps.
Omus cannot prevent Chaos Magic adepts from affecting the flow of time, but when they do so they do not connect with it in the relatively safe way that he has devised. As such, the chances of a Chronomantic mishap are greatly increased. Though the Sahaguin are not typically very cautious when it comes to such risks, the process of natural selection has meant that nowadays, only the most reckless of them dare meddle with the order of time.
An additional subset of Chronomancy is called Histomancy, which works slightly differently, drawing upon an object's past with a greater relation to meaning and the spiritual realm than Chronomancy. For example, Histomancy could be used to cause a wooden table to grow back into a tree. Typical Chronomancy could reverse the process of time on the table, but it would only be part of a tree, which is still essentially just wood. However, Histomancy uses the fact that, somehow, the table still "remembers" being a tree, and encourages it to relive that part of its past.
Omus takes Chronomancy as his third domain.
PP remaining: 4 General, 1 Evolution and 1 Chronomancy
1 Impose + 1 Time: Craft (Chronomancy)
Omus formalises the concept of Chronomancy. This makes it very difficult for the Sahaguin to use Chaos Magic to manipulate time, at least safely, without also using Chronomancy.
At its most basic level, Chronomancy allows users to stretch the flow of time, speeding things up or slowing them down.
More advanced Chronomancers can also see a short distance into the past or future, age things, or slow the passage of time to do the opposite.
The most powerful Chronomancers can send themselves or others short distances into the future or even potentially the past.
However, Chronomancy comes with its own risks. The unfathomable nature of time is such that those who use powerful Chronomancy without due care risk damaging their minds and sending themselves mad. Chronomancy performed incorrectly can also result in several Chronomantic mishaps.
Omus cannot prevent Chaos Magic adepts from affecting the flow of time, but when they do so they do not connect with it in the relatively safe way that he has devised. As such, the chances of a Chronomantic mishap are greatly increased. Though the Sahaguin are not typically very cautious when it comes to such risks, the process of natural selection has meant that nowadays, only the most reckless of them dare meddle with the order of time.
An additional subset of Chronomancy is called Histomancy, which works slightly differently, drawing upon an object's past with a greater relation to meaning and the spiritual realm than Chronomancy. For example, Histomancy could be used to cause a wooden table to grow back into a tree. Typical Chronomancy could reverse the process of time on the table, but it would only be part of a tree, which is still essentially just wood. However, Histomancy uses the fact that, somehow, the table still "remembers" being a tree, and encourages it to relive that part of its past.
Omus takes Chronomancy as his third domain.
PP remaining: 4 General, 1 Evolution and 1 Chronomancy
Now his paradise had the lowest denominator. The weak, the prey, the fodder, the meat, the subservient, the helpless, the lambs, the bottom of the food chain. But he had no real interest in them. Or anything so low down. He wanted... predators. The strong! The mighty! Those proud enough to uphold his own image of power.
The problem was, even with the tangled ball of Ikola's power in his fist... he was severely limited. Both in what he could do, and what he could invision. He was a corrupter, not a creator... he needed help. But who would help him? Chaos was the closest thing he had to an ally, but he seemed frivalous at best and not suited for such a task. Knowledge... there was an intriguing thought, but Knowledge seemed interested in learning. What could be learnt in a hellscape like this? It was perfect for him, but it burned away most knowledge the way it would grass. Death... hm... perhaps it WAS time he saw his wayward child before Ikola corrupted them fully... though not suited to bring life to this place, it would be a good idea to do a courtesy call...
Ugh! Krulsk absently batted away a strange scaley, winged thing... they were all over the place bizzarely. Strange, since there was little place to roost and excepting the hard for them to devour Rockbeasts, nothing for them to eat... yet they'd been pestering him ever since he emerged from the lava! Perhaps it was time to stop ignoring them and investigate.
Forming numerous tentacles, Krulsks grabbed ahold of a drake in his grip and read its very soul... Fie! That stupid looking flying beast had sent these... 'Drakes' to try and limit his influence. Much good they could do against a being such as himself and his work, but it was irksome to say the least! A shame these things were so distasteful... they fit rather well with the ascestic of this place. Hells, between them and the Rockbeasts it might well be... possible to...
Ahhhh yes... perfect. He was a corruptor after all... and what better thing to corrupt than the weapons brought against him? And to use against themselves no less...
Black venom entered the drake's veins through Krulsk's tentacles, the god letting go of the thrashing beast as it collapsed onto the stone beneath them. Black veins popped out of the creatures skin as it grew and changed. Its skin becoming a sickly green, its tail becoming like that of a scorpions, it's noble head becoming a headous preadtious one. Its wings grew and thickened, and it grew to two or even three times its former size. And then it... popped. Plain and simply popped, but each bit of flesh, and bone, and tooth, and scale, and horn, and blood that splattered soon grew into a creature just like had been there before... no longer a singular, but a multitude.
Wyverns... that's what he would call them. His soldiers of the sky. Those that would rule the Field of Fire, and every other sky warm enough to sustain them for that matter. And they would be filled with hunger, and venom, and hate... especially for their former kin. Drakes would be their rivals, their enemy... and their food.
Actions
2PP (Corruption): Spawn Wyvern - Krulsk creates the Wyvern, bigger, stronger flying creatures with venomous tales that despise and prey upon Drakes. There tend to be more hatcheries in the Field of Fire than anywhere else, but any warm climate whether desert, tropical or volcanic tends to attract them.
2PP (Corruption): Spawn Wyvern - Krulsk creates the Wyvern, bigger, stronger flying creatures with venomous tales that despise and prey upon Drakes. There tend to be more hatcheries in the Field of Fire than anywhere else, but any warm climate whether desert, tropical or volcanic tends to attract them.
"Oh clever, clever!" Nos cried, his hands dancing all the more excitedly. "A boldfaced untruth, like if I called you a whale, is interesting but easily discovered. I see what you are saying! If one mixes a little truth in with the untruths, the lies are harder to identify. It stretches the mind more to discover them, then. Excellent, Excellent! Oh, you are a clever one, He-Who-Cannot-Fit-Into-His-Corporeal-Form-Due-To-His-Ego. Thank you, thank you. This wonderful invention will be most interesting, yes, yes."
The god of knowledge turned to Death, and said, "Your new form is a fine one, fine fine fine fine. It is good, and I will have to remember to recommend it to those I see who lack such a one. As I must recommend to you Lies, here. Oh, he'll claim he is something else, I'm sure, but don't believe it. He said he was life, but there's not a strand of Ikola about him. He said he was water, but lacks a single tentacle of Umi. But Lies are so interesting, yes, yes. Death and Lies, I suspect that there'll be much to come from that, yes? yes!"
~Seamounts~
In the forests of the sea life began to thrive. Smaller grasses and shrubs began to drift along the waves, and crabs, squirts, and other creatures clung to them and the trees to create a life there. Birds nested in the branches above, swooping into the waters to grab food. And, under the water, numerous fish came to be, filling the ecological niches that, on land, might have been filled by squirrels, racoons, foxes, wolves, and deer, among other animals.
Of particular note, though, were the silverfish. While all the swimming things had scales that glistened in the starlight like metal, the skin of these creatures were actual metal, iron and silver and gold and other precious minerals. In time, they'd come to be a valuable resource for those who lived by the seamounts.
God Block
1PP Nourish (1PP general) : The watery region around the seamounts gets full of animal life.
2PP Nourish (1PP General, 1PP Travel) Strategic Resource - Silver Fish. Nos creates metal that moves, Silverfish. Technically, there are other kinds of metal fish as well, but Silverfish are the most plentiful and represent the bonus that this resource can provide. The other metals are just present in enough amounts that a people could get by using them instead of mining.
1 General, 1 Knowledge, 1 Generate remaining
1PP Nourish (1PP general) : The watery region around the seamounts gets full of animal life.
2PP Nourish (1PP General, 1PP Travel) Strategic Resource - Silver Fish. Nos creates metal that moves, Silverfish. Technically, there are other kinds of metal fish as well, but Silverfish are the most plentiful and represent the bonus that this resource can provide. The other metals are just present in enough amounts that a people could get by using them instead of mining.
1 General, 1 Knowledge, 1 Generate remaining
Oh, well that is quite lovely. You deliver many to me? How splendid. I do suppose time is a killer. Not many people realize, Life is a limited resource. Eventually you run out. And then poof, here I am. And I guess lies kill too. In subtler, more sinister ways.
He paused, and turned to Knowledge, looking mildly confused. Or at least as mildly confused as it was possible to be when one was wrapped in bandages.
Silly me. Subtle and sinister. Those words just occurred to me, and frankly I have no idea what they mean. They just popped into my head and for the... well, not for the life of me, perhaps for the death of me, I simply cannot imagine a meaning for them. How strange.
~The World Below~
Common sense dictates that earth is a steady and reliable element. And by all accounts it is. Whoever heard of a rock moving on its own? Or a stone splitting or warping? Certainly not you or I. But earth is not steady, and it certainly isn't reliable. It is merely patient. It can wait many prolonged years before it makes its 'move' as it were. And every so often, perhaps through slow, inexorable movements over great long spans, or all at once in a tumble, the earth splits and cracks, and there's simply no stopping it.
In the primordial days of the world, the earth was wont to split and crack and warp far more often than in later years. Some shifts happened slowly, some fast, but their effects were certainly lasting. For that was the power of earth. It didn't move often, but when it did, it really did, and there was no moving it back.
In those days, and certainly in later days, if those in the know were to be believed, the rock far below the surface of the world was far more like water than rock, and it carried melted ores along its course all about the world. Down there, super-heated rock flowed and ebbed like the seas above, and radiated a powerful heat.This sea of magma was what the upper crust rode upon, so that what seemed steady and reliable up above was actually roaring and bubbling deep beneath. At first this magma sea existed rather close to the surface, but as time went on, great pockets of it cooled and solidified, forming great caverns beneath the world.
At first, this series of great caverns was closed to the world above, but then one day, a great tectonic event ejected a great number of rocks from the upper crust. These massive chunks of rockrose up into the air and, supported by some godly force, hung there, high above the earth. And the chasms they cleared out provided easy access to the caverns below.
Over time, the caverns below began to fill up once more. But this time, it was not with rock. It seemed the solidified molten rock was the perfect ground upon which to grow a whole manner of strange plants and fungi, all with deadly properties. There were poisonous mushrooms, and great leathery plants that released harmful spores. This forest spread quickly through the fertile caverns, and soon massive mushrooms reached towards the cavern ceiling way above, which glinted and glowed strangely with blue and green phosphorescence. But terror be to those who walked this jungle, for every plant, every seedling and every spore, was poisonous, deadly in its own way.
PP
2 PP Command Land (Domain): Deep within the bowels of the earth, there is a churning magma sea.
2 PP Nourish Land (Domain): The magma sea brings iron deposits all about the earth.
4 PP Command Land (Domain): A series of massive caverns open up beneath the surface of the world. Essentially this world's equivalent of the Underdark.
1 PP Nourish Land (Domain): A blood-red mushroom known as Warmonger's Bloom spreads through the Underdark. It inspired feelings of violence and rage in those who are infected by its spores.
1 PP Nourish Land (Domain): Nightlace is a fungus that grows in the Underdark, particularly accross the ceilings. It glows a variety of colours, most notably blue and green, creating strange constellations across the roof of the caverns. Ingesting even a sliver of Nightlace is instant death, but it is difficult to administer, for it retains its phosphorescent properties even when removed from the place on which it grows. Conversely, it can act as a marvelous torch.
2 PP Nourish Land (Domain): A whole mess of other deadly fungi grow in the Underdark with all manner of other properties.
2 PP Command Land (Domain): A whole range of floating 'mountains' fly up into the sky to hover high above the earth.
2 PP Command Land (Domain): The chasms left by the floating chunks of rock provide access to the Underdark below.
2 PP Nourish Land (Domain): The magma sea brings iron deposits all about the earth.
4 PP Command Land (Domain): A series of massive caverns open up beneath the surface of the world. Essentially this world's equivalent of the Underdark.
1 PP Nourish Land (Domain): A blood-red mushroom known as Warmonger's Bloom spreads through the Underdark. It inspired feelings of violence and rage in those who are infected by its spores.
1 PP Nourish Land (Domain): Nightlace is a fungus that grows in the Underdark, particularly accross the ceilings. It glows a variety of colours, most notably blue and green, creating strange constellations across the roof of the caverns. Ingesting even a sliver of Nightlace is instant death, but it is difficult to administer, for it retains its phosphorescent properties even when removed from the place on which it grows. Conversely, it can act as a marvelous torch.
2 PP Nourish Land (Domain): A whole mess of other deadly fungi grow in the Underdark with all manner of other properties.
2 PP Command Land (Domain): A whole range of floating 'mountains' fly up into the sky to hover high above the earth.
2 PP Command Land (Domain): The chasms left by the floating chunks of rock provide access to the Underdark below.
1 PP: Nourish Earth: Part of the Mirage Valley becomes stable, but travel is not going to be easy.
Map
Story:
God Stats: .
Level/Domain Slots/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 4/Life:2 /2/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /1/0/0/1
Death. 4/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/2/0
Umi. 3/Ocean:2 Ice:1/1/0/0/0
Nos. 3/Knowledge:1 Travel:1/0/1/1/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 3/Time:1 Evolution:1 Chromomancy:1/0/1/0/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 2/Protection:1/1/0/0/0
Loki: 2/Chaos:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/1/0
Order: 2/Order:1/0/0/0/0
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Nerdzul: Spend some PP and you'll get included
"All life dies," Omus said, "Yet nothing really dies. Metal rusts, stones turn to sand, and all crumbles to dust. Yet, the flesh of those who are killed feeds the ones that live, and new life grows from the death of the old. So the cycle continues."
"Still," Omus continued. "Everything has... it's time."
Musing for a moment, Omus reached down into the deserts of this new Mirage Valley, scooping up two handfuls of sand. He threw the right handful up, and the sand spun and tumbled in the void, hovering just above. The right handful too began to float, but instead is spun and whirled until it... changed. The right handful flowed in a long thin arc to the left, and finally, his work was finished.
The result was an hourglass, the sand inside tumbling and whirling as if lifted by some desert wind.
"Time and death are forever linked," Omus said, passing the hourglass to Death, "It is not so much life that things run out of when they die, but time."
PP and Actions
Reset: 3 General + 1 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
Total: 7 General, 1 Time, 2 Evolution, 2 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
2 Chronomancy - Forge - The Hourglass of Death
Omus forges sand of the Mirage Valley into a Chronomantic hourglass which displays how much time a person has left before dying. As a Chronomantic artefact, it never lies, but when Chronomancy is involved, the result can be confusing (occasionally, it may display odd effects, like the sand flowing backwards, or nonexistant). Likewise, the Glass is foiled by the divine - if used on gods, it appears to be void of sand but filled with a divine energy.
PP remaining: 7 General, 1 Time, 2 Evolution, 1 Impose (is this right? It seems a lot)
Reset: 3 General + 1 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
Total: 7 General, 1 Time, 2 Evolution, 2 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
2 Chronomancy - Forge - The Hourglass of Death
Omus forges sand of the Mirage Valley into a Chronomantic hourglass which displays how much time a person has left before dying. As a Chronomantic artefact, it never lies, but when Chronomancy is involved, the result can be confusing (occasionally, it may display odd effects, like the sand flowing backwards, or nonexistant). Likewise, the Glass is foiled by the divine - if used on gods, it appears to be void of sand but filled with a divine energy.
PP remaining: 7 General, 1 Time, 2 Evolution, 1 Impose (is this right? It seems a lot)
"Is this, however, a lie mixed with a little truth?" queried Omus. "What then would that be, for it cannot be truth and it cannot be lie? Surely, it must be something else entirely?"
"No, my dear Lies, it's fine," Nos said. One of his heads began to look again at the Elder Thing. That was, after all, one of the reasons why he had come up here. "There can be only one truth, but there can be an infinite number of not-truths. Yes? Yes. So it's easier to call them all lies, or at least falsehoods. Trying to name each kind would be very time consuming. Also, my name's Nos, not Shirley."
A different head turned to Death as he spoke about not knowing the meaning of the words "subtle" and "sinister." One of Nos's heads smiled his crude, ill-formed smile and said, "Not to worry, not to worry. Happens all the time. There's so many words that need to be made, so many indeed, we're bound to stumble over a few that haven't been defined yet. Might as well give them a meaning, when you feel like it. Yes, yes. Still working on zebra myself. It's a nice word, full of stripes, but haven't figured out any definition that it suitable for it, yet."
He-Who-Cannot-Fit-Into-His-Corporeal-Form-Due-To-His-Ego added that creatures don't run out of life but rather time. Nos smiled, patted Omus on the shoulders a few times with more than a few hands, and said, "Of course they do, my dear Lies, of course they do."
A different head winked at Death, but then looked up at the Elder Thing as well. "Well," Nos said, "I'm still curious about that thing, so I think I'll be going to investigate. It was a pleasure meeting you, Lies. I look forward to hearing what falsehoods you come up with next. Maybe I'll look backward for it, too? Since you seem interested in time, when I figure it out, I'll come back and let you know. And to you, Mother-Father Death, the best wishes. Yes? Yes. You two seem to be getting together like fish and water. Just, don't believe a word he says. No? No. He lies, you see."
With a final, respected bow of his heads, Nos crawled away on his hands, up further into the air and beyond.
~Near the Elder Thing~
Hand by hand, Nos made his way to where the incomprehensible Elder Thing floated. It was as enormous as it was silent. It seemed to orbit the world below, like a true moon to which the other three were odd copies of. Nos poked it, and prodded it. He looked at it in all the realms, but it refused to give up its secrets.
Recalling the talk of time, Nos began to wonder where the thing had come from. If he knew its origin, he might be able to deduce its presence. But it was so old, it was so long above the world, that any hint of its path had faded into naught. Undeterred, Nos sat down next to it to consider time.
Everything lived in the present, of that, he was certain. He had observed the power that caused locomotion in the physical realm. There was none of it leaking into the past or flowing in from the future, at least, none that left a trace. The present was an expansive realm: all the nows that one could imagine would happen in the present, and as far as he could tell, none of these different nows touched one another. But the past? The Elder Thing had to come from somewhere, and that movement was in the past. What sort of place must the past be?
Nos thought on it, and grew cold. If the present was a single moment that occupied a single place in the universe, the now, then what was the past but a moment that occupied a near-infinite place, always stretching away from the now? Whatever energy there might be in the past, it was a finite thing spread across something far greater. Energy poor, he decided. Like the ice that Umi had created. Indeed, there was a relation there.
Exerting his will, Nos formed a pillar of ice infront of him and, together, his three heads peered deeply into it. He shifted through the reflections of the present and found one that did not belong. A reflection of the past. Looking at it, tracing it, made him cold, but he continued to gaze, divining what events had transpired before the present. Ever and always the Elder Thing was here. Further back Nos looked, but still it was there. Until, finally, there was nothing more to see, and the Elder Thing was still there.
Frost crunched and flaked away from Nos' body as he leaned back. The Elder Thing had existed before time. Was it a creature from a different reality? Or perhaps an oddity of existence itself. Earth had mountains, why couldn't reality have Elder Things. Perhaps there were more, somewhere... perhaps not. However, Nos realized, none of this had answered any questions. All he had found out was that the Elder Thing was ancient. He had already knew that, since it had existed before him, though he hadn't realized how ancient. It was new information, and therefor valuable, but it wasn't what he sought.
Nos leaned back in, but no matter how long he peered into the ice, there was no reflection of the future. He needed to think.
If the past was a long record, energy poor because a moment was stretched to far, what was the future? All moments yet to come, always on the edge of happening, pressing up next to the present. Nos grew warm as he thought about it. The frost melted from his body and the ice from infront of him. The future must be energy rich. So much potential, crammed into the next breath, the next blink.
A blazing fire was willed into existence and Nos looked now into it. Yes, just as ice was akin to the past, fire was familiar to the future. In the blazing tongues and shifting images, Nos began to see the future take shape. No, not shape, that was far too solid of a word. There was the future, but with every lick of the flame it changed. Sometimes slightly, sometimes grately. There were consistent themes that Nos was able to pick out, things that probably were almost certain to come to pass, but the further he looked into the fire, the less frequently he saw these themes. And the Elder Thing. It was hard to see it through the fire, but from what little he could make out, it still sat there, unknowable.
Frustrated, Nos sat back, his body smoking, his hairs singed. That... was far less productive than he had hoped it would be.
God Block
1 General, 1 Knowledge, 1 Generate Remaining from last week
1PP Craft Concept: History/The Past (1 Knowledge). Nos studies the events of the past, seeking knowledge of the Elder Thing. While his primary goal fails, he does discover/establish the nature of the past and connects it to the element of Ice. Those who have an affinity for the cold also have an affinity for divining the past, and the proper, magical focus for doing so is a sheet of ice (a flat, smooth sheet is actually less effective than a clear but multifacited shard of ice). Care must be taken, however, when looking into the past, as it can cause ice damage to those who do so.
1PP Craft Concept: Prophesy/The Future (1 Knowledge). Likewise, Nos studies the future, hoping to find information about the Elder Thing. Again his primary objective is foiled, but he does discover/establish the nature of prophecy and the future, and conects those to the element of Fire. Those who have an affinity for heat also have an affinity for seeing the future, and the proper, magical focus for doing so is an open flame (the larger and more untamed, the better). Care must be taken, however, when looking into the future, as it can cause fire damage to those who do so.
Neither of these are domains, and Nos claims neither. They are just specialized areas of knowledge that I'm trying to define a bit, to hopefully flavor the world.
4 General, 0 Knowledge, 1 Travel, 1 Impose, 2 generate PP remaining.
1 General, 1 Knowledge, 1 Generate Remaining from last week
1PP Craft Concept: History/The Past (1 Knowledge). Nos studies the events of the past, seeking knowledge of the Elder Thing. While his primary goal fails, he does discover/establish the nature of the past and connects it to the element of Ice. Those who have an affinity for the cold also have an affinity for divining the past, and the proper, magical focus for doing so is a sheet of ice (a flat, smooth sheet is actually less effective than a clear but multifacited shard of ice). Care must be taken, however, when looking into the past, as it can cause ice damage to those who do so.
1PP Craft Concept: Prophesy/The Future (1 Knowledge). Likewise, Nos studies the future, hoping to find information about the Elder Thing. Again his primary objective is foiled, but he does discover/establish the nature of prophecy and the future, and conects those to the element of Fire. Those who have an affinity for heat also have an affinity for seeing the future, and the proper, magical focus for doing so is an open flame (the larger and more untamed, the better). Care must be taken, however, when looking into the future, as it can cause fire damage to those who do so.
Neither of these are domains, and Nos claims neither. They are just specialized areas of knowledge that I'm trying to define a bit, to hopefully flavor the world.
4 General, 0 Knowledge, 1 Travel, 1 Impose, 2 generate PP remaining.
The trickster god smiled wickedly to himself as his divine essence wavered with newfound strength. He was 'evolving' in a sense; not changing physically, but becoming able to channel a deeper resevoir of his innate power. As he made his way to the island he had created, he stopped on its shore and gazed off in the distance, where Dagon's Maw opened into the sea. The sight gave him an idea, and he sought about giving the notion a physical form. Loki gestured out across the water, imbuing his thoughts with Chaotic energies which seemed to ripple forth over the water. The very landscape shifted at his mental command, becoming a ring of broken stone which encirled the island, preventing anything from reaching it by sea unless they know the proper routes. Hurricane-force winds begin blowing around the island as well, accompanied by large waves, and blinding sheets of rain.
For the Sahuagin
Loki summoned one of his first creations, a mighty Sahuagin capable of wielding chaotic energies much like his own to his side. He placed his hand on the creature's head, then dragged his nail across its brow, cutting a small symbol into the scaly flesh. The 'Eye of Dagon' would allow the Lord of the Deep, and through him, Loki himself to access the bearer's senses as if they were his own, and funnel their own energies through the bearer like a conduit. He also pulls a bone necklace from his pocket, fastening it around the neck of the creature; as he does so, a thunderclap sounds overhead, and the eye of the storm seems to hover above him, following him.
God Block
- 1 PP Harm (Chaos) Loki creates a reef-like ring of jagged, razor sharp rocks to encircle the island.
- 2 PP Forge (1 Generic, 1 Chaos) A deadly storm also shrouds the island, causing anyone foolish enough to try and reach the island to be forced towards the surrounding reef. This storm can be controlled by a talisman worn by one of Dagon's high priests.
- 2 PP Forge (1 Generic, 1 Chaos) The 'Mark of Dagon' is gifted to Dagon's most devout high priest, who is also the one capable of controlling the storm around the island. Dagon/Loki are able to seize control of this individual at any time, and are capable of channeling the energy of Chaos through him if need be.
Expenditures: 2 Generic, 3 Chaos (including the one gained by Empower) Therefore, all my PP have been spent for this round.
Now, there was an island out on the water a storm of chaos surrounding it. Loki had been busy. The tentacled one turned to his companion. Loki's doing, he explained, Shall we go say hello?
With a thought, Order vanished, reappearing high above on the smalled of his three moons. "Yes. Things are not working correctly yet. My intentions were a single large power to provide the order which seemed appropriate to me. But with their shattering on the stars, they are not fully powered. More work will be needed."
Another thought, and he blinked to the largest moon. "This one is not as hampered as the smaller. And it's influence shows in the watters below, providing ebb and flow of tides. Excellent."
A final thought and he blinked to the middle moon, then wavered. "This is not right. It is inert but that is nonsense. I can feel my energy infusng it, but it does nothing. Almost as if something else were syphoning it away. I must look within for the answers."
Efforltessly, he slipped through the very substance of the celestial body, and was surprised to find it hollow, a shell surrounding a glowing ball of energy. But something was wrong, and dark lines of energy wrapped tightly around the central orb, drawing its power away to fuel itself. Incensed that something interfered with his work, he reached out with a tendril of power to tear the parasite free. As he made contact, he felt a surge of power flowing from him into the invader, but was blinded for a moment my images flashing though his mind. Falling back, he shimmered in the air.
"What are you?"
PP
2 PP (domain) - Craft Domain - Moon ((I'll officially claim it when I level.))
1 PP (Domain) - Nourish Land - As the moons begin to exert their influence properly on the world below, creatures living in the ocean reap the benefits of water being circluated by the ebb and flow of the tides.
2 PP - Nourish Land - Plants and creatures on the land also flourish from the exterions of the moons as basic elements of weather take hold, bringing rain and helping to regulate temperatures.
3 PP - Beget Zeym, the god of dreams
1 PP - Set aside for a command action later.
1 PP (Domain) - Nourish Land - As the moons begin to exert their influence properly on the world below, creatures living in the ocean reap the benefits of water being circluated by the ebb and flow of the tides.
2 PP - Nourish Land - Plants and creatures on the land also flourish from the exterions of the moons as basic elements of weather take hold, bringing rain and helping to regulate temperatures.
3 PP - Beget Zeym, the god of dreams
1 PP - Set aside for a command action later.
This place was where life had began... both the good of it, and the bad. Filth Fish... but also regular fish. Sanguine... but also those strange jellyfish things he'd come across on his travels. Perhaps this was the nature of the world... to be balanced between the light and the dark, the wholesome and the unwholesome. But if that was the case, why did his mountains have to be ground into the sea? Why did his Filth Fishs' venom need to be weakened? Why did the world need to be covered by so many DAMNED trees!
Ugh... well here was another place without trees. Just kelp and animals, though the kelp burned too if he touched it. Just to a far lesser extent. Perhaps he could find inspiration here as to how to make a world without pesky plantlife. Or how to combat that which existed. Drowning the world might work, but what then of his Pillars of Corruption that tainted the air, or his Field of Fire that scorched all that lived and was weak? Hm...
Sanguine... they didn't hold the answers he sought. Not in the least. But they were certainly interesting to watch. Even if just covertly... if he drew too close, they grew aggressive and insane. If he appeared directly before them... few came away with any semblance of self, sanity, or feeling left. If he wished to learn of them, he had to do so at a distance, and sneakily.
The thing captivated him... some were rather moral. Others wicked. And the moral turned wicked the moment they had an opportunity good enough to throw away their pesky morals for. It was... beautiful. Perhaps the quissential form of corruption. Krulsk made a decision... he would do something with these fine creatures. Something to give them to strive for... or dread. Something to tempt them and make them wicked. All he needed was... an opportunity. And he thought he saw one...
PP and Actions
3PP - Nourish - Omus gives the plants time to spread across the world. As a result, grass, shrubs and trees spring up everywhere. Around the deserts, especially Krulsk's Fields of Fire, they are limited to the hardier varieties, but nevertheless wizened shrubs, cacti, and prickly pears soon evolve. Most of the rest of the globe is turned into sprawling grasslands or sparse forest.
2PP + 1 Impose - Command - The winds of time blow all things away. The most jagged of Krulsk's mountains are weathered down to less jagged mountains. The coastline is reshaped, widening the inlets and smoothing away peninsulae. In turn, the winds carve new tracks in the land, cutting valleys from the earth and forming low, rolling hills.
PP remaining: 2 General, 2 Evolution
3PP - Nourish - Omus gives the plants time to spread across the world. As a result, grass, shrubs and trees spring up everywhere. Around the deserts, especially Krulsk's Fields of Fire, they are limited to the hardier varieties, but nevertheless wizened shrubs, cacti, and prickly pears soon evolve. Most of the rest of the globe is turned into sprawling grasslands or sparse forest.
2PP + 1 Impose - Command - The winds of time blow all things away. The most jagged of Krulsk's mountains are weathered down to less jagged mountains. The coastline is reshaped, widening the inlets and smoothing away peninsulae. In turn, the winds carve new tracks in the land, cutting valleys from the earth and forming low, rolling hills.
PP remaining: 2 General, 2 Evolution
A whimpering disturbed the waters and Ikt glared over his shoulder. A she, a mother, hurridly snatched the infant up in her arms and cooed at it. The infant didn’t cease its annoyance, but it quieted enough to let Ikt ignore it. It might be his own child. He wasn’t sure. The she might have been his mate, he couldn’t remember. But he had decided that he would lead a group of his kin away from the forsaken island, and these followed him, so he expected that they were his relatives.
That was the cost of the power he used. Ikt had tried to be careful, but there had been a strange bout of Sahuagin turning crazy and savage. He had been forced to use his power to break time in order incapacitate them. In doing so, he had become unable to identify with those he had protected. He didn’t care, really, but he knew that he should care, so he tried to act like it.
The group had been traveling for quite some time. There supplies were gone, and Ikt didn’t give them enough time to hunt like they needed to. It was better to get away from that illness that caused the other Sahuagin to go mad. Again, Ikt didn’t care himself, but he knew that he should care, and so he tried to act like he did. When he looked at those with him, it felt like looking at rocks. So, he tried not to look at them, to always look ahead. That way, he could better pretend that he had any love for those who followed him.
They came to an underwater forest. It was pleasant enough, and the others seemed content to settle here. It was a respectable distance away from the forsaken island. That satisfied Ikt well enough. The bounty of fish, however, had the final say. They had all gone without food for too long to walk away from it.
As they settled in this new place, some of the others told Ikt that the she he had seen with the child had been his wife. He tried to spend time with her, to rebuild the connection that had been destroyed, but whatever he had once seen in her, if there truthfully ever was anything, was gone. One of the younger she’s in the group had caught his eye. Her teeth were seductively sharp, her temper as harsh as the rocks of their old home. The others told him he was wrong to pursue the she, they told him he should be content with his own, that the gods would curse him for his unfaithfulness. He didn’t listen. Why should he care what they said when he didn’t care who they were?!
Their children were stockier than normal, but healthy, and these Ikt was able to come to love and care for. Father Death comes for everyone, though, and Ikt passed away. His children grew, and had children of their own, who were stockier still. Generations passed, and these people diverged from their chaos-born brethren.
Those that had been Sahuagin now called themselves the Mazunti . They were short of height, but wide of frame and well-muscled. They had pale skin, with the tiniest of scales that was shaded blue, like the color of those who have drown. Upon their backs they had gnarled, leathery shells. Their faces mildly resembled that of an alligator turtle. Though most were bald, nearly every man had a wild beard like that of seaweed.
God Block
4 PP (2 Generate, 2 General): Shape Mazunti. These people look vaguely like a humanoid alligator snapping turtle, and are descended from the Sahuagin. Like their ancestors, they are capable of living on land, but prefer the water. They are essentially aquatic dwarves, in the same manner that Azer are fire dwarves. They currently live around the seamounts, in the kelp forest there.
2 General, 1 Travel, 1 Impose PP remaining
4 PP (2 Generate, 2 General): Shape Mazunti. These people look vaguely like a humanoid alligator snapping turtle, and are descended from the Sahuagin. Like their ancestors, they are capable of living on land, but prefer the water. They are essentially aquatic dwarves, in the same manner that Azer are fire dwarves. They currently live around the seamounts, in the kelp forest there.
2 General, 1 Travel, 1 Impose PP remaining
No-one understood... not really. No-one could appreciate the true madgesty of his magic. Or rather the potential it had. People viewed magic as a tool. Not only a tool, but one to be used lightly. Sparingly. Not to be mastered. But how could he get better if he didn't use his craft! He wanted to be good... the best really. Low level magic was something you could use without burning anything too important, and so he did that to strengthen his skills. But even so... no-one appreciated how much he desired to be strong. As strong as the great mages of his kind. His parents certainly didn't approve... he almost wanted to waste his power away to burn away his connection with them so it no longer concerned him in the slightest.
For now though... Kilwik, the future great Chaos Caster slept. Fitfully, turning in his bed. At first, it was a simple nightmare, but soon... he felt something reach into his mind. Something... great. Terrible. And he knew now that his dreams were no longer his own.
"Kilwik the Sahuagin. I sense great Greed within your heart," a bodiless voice echoed in the empty mist of his mind. Kilwik suddenly feeling small and insignificant in the face of its power, and in the emptiness of his dreams once filled with fantasies of revenge, and of power.
"I... I will repent then," he stammered, not sure how to take this sudden intrusion into his own head.
"Do not worry, Kilwik the Sahuagin... it was meant as a compliment. After all... was it not greed that drove other mages to the heights at which they now stand? Was it not greed that motivated cheftains, and all those who are great? Great greed shall lead to great things, Kilwik the Sahuagin." As the voice boomed into his mind, the featurless plain about him shifted and changed. Images of those he admired... those he envied came to mind. Images of what he wanted... adulation, mates, gold... all things he would be able to have with his great power, one day.
"Yes... yes you are right, Great One!" the mage called. "What then do you want with me!"
"If you want power, and gold, and mates, and adulation, and force, and fame, and wealth, and pride, and joy, and presence... then why do you restrict yourself? Why do you stop yourself from using your powers?" the voice boomed to him temptingly.
"I... this magic... it consumes me when I use it..."
"Then be consumed!" the voice commanded. "What matter are these things you call family, and friends, and lovers, and companions? Consume them all, toss them all aside to prove your power! Imagine what you could do if you burnt them all away into a single spell. Create a mountain of gold? A spectacle they shall speak of for ages? Life itself? Are you not TEMPTED, Kilwik the Sahuagin? Do you not have the GREED within you to seek true power?!"
"I... yes... yes of course I do!" Kilwik replied.
"Then awaken, Kilwik, and perform your greatest feat. Believe you me... once you do, your name will go down in history."
***********
Magic didn't require symbols, or circles or the like. But when it came to complicated things like he had decided he would do... it made things far simpler. It was easier to concentrate with the flow of power and killing of connections if you had a visual aid of how you wished to implement the power, and a focal point to concentrate it as much as possible. So he had drawn one on his floor with a piece of rock.
"Great one... is this what you desired?" he whispered into the ocean around him. Only silence greeted him... it seemed as though the Great One only spoke to him as he slept. Only appeared to inspire him, not to guide him.
That was fine... he didn't NEED guidance. He was Kilwik! The great! The mighty! And soon to be the obscenly, overwhelmingly powerful...
He would throw everything he had into this spell... burn every connection to this world. And when it was over, he would be invincible. All he needed to do was begin the spell... and pour more power into it. More. MORE! Burn it all away! Burn every last shred of his... ugh... UCHG! LAGCH!!
As he burned away his essence... it wasn't just like throwing wood onto the fire. No, it was like... punching holes into the side of a ship. Certainly, air escaped, but water poured in to replace it. With every good memory, and bond he abandoned... something dark took it's place. Something... empty but not empty. As though emptiness itself had taken form and taken root within his soul. And as more and more of his mind was lost... his body changed. It darkened, became more monstrous. Then more... abstract. To the point where he was literally but a shadow thing that vaguely resembled a Sahuagin in appearance.
Kilwik was gone... Kilwik the Empty. Kilwik the Dark. He had no mind left, just a ravaging void for his essence. And all he wanted was... to go downstairs and drain the feeling from his parents. Feel something for the barest moments... before they too turned like him. Voidlings... nothings...
He would go down in history as Kilwik the Foolish... Kilwik that opened the gate of the nothings. Kilwik, the first Voidlings. As always... Krulsk had told nothing but the truth.
Actions
2PP (1 Corrupt PP, 1 Generate PP) - Spawn Voidlings - Voidlings are not a race or monster in their own right, but a twisted reality that results from those foolish or mad enough to become one. Whenever someone burns too much of themselves away with magic, is so filled with rage or hate they lose their very essence, or become so overcome with madness they lose their very form, they become Voidlings. Voidlings take a shadowy, abstracted form vaguely reminscent of their old life, excepting rare cases where strong willed or powerful individuals mutate into powerful beasts reflecting their inner demons. Left to their own devices do nothing but devour the minds of living beings. A being who's mind is devoured this way becomes a Voidling themselves.
2PP (1 Corrupt PP, 1 Generate PP) - Spawn Voidlings - Voidlings are not a race or monster in their own right, but a twisted reality that results from those foolish or mad enough to become one. Whenever someone burns too much of themselves away with magic, is so filled with rage or hate they lose their very essence, or become so overcome with madness they lose their very form, they become Voidlings. Voidlings take a shadowy, abstracted form vaguely reminscent of their old life, excepting rare cases where strong willed or powerful individuals mutate into powerful beasts reflecting their inner demons. Left to their own devices do nothing but devour the minds of living beings. A being who's mind is devoured this way becomes a Voidling themselves.
How did the orb arrive at the core of the moon? How long had it been there before Order made contact? These questions, it seems, must ever go unanswered, for not even the ball knows. It knows only that for some amount of time (moments? since the creation of the celestial body? longer?) before Order poked at it, it existed in a world of its own devising; a fantastical world loosely held together by narrative structure and the power of Order leeched from the moon.
And then it felt the touch of Order more strongly, and was forced into awareness. It heard words coming from the other deity's mouth, but had a few more pressing matters to concern itself with. Its form, for instance; while it had been unaware of its spherical design during its dream state, it was now painfully aware of its tightly ordered shape, and its very nature rebelled. Immediately, she (for it was now a she) took the form of a cloud of fog containing a feminine silhouette with no apparent source. With that matter settled, she took a moment to reflect on the question she had been asked. After a few moments, she whispered softly, "I'm not sure what I am. What are you, and why did you wake me?"
These were such delightful creatures, these Kalamar. Nos had snuck one away from the others to examine it, and it was fascinating. So much like Umi, yet so different. It truly existed in all the three realms, which was wonderful. Oh so wonderful.
Nos watched as, in the spiritual realm, a bead of power condensed from the power of a god. Umi, presumably, since he had created this creature. That bead of power soaked through into the cognitive realm, where it took the shape of a body wanting to function, and from there it manifested in the physical world, as life. Fascinating.
Not just life, but independent life. Though the power came from a god, by residing within the creature, it allowed it to be separate from a god. Little slivers of creation, all of them, with a will of their own, a desire to create of their own. It was ironic that only by having that portion of a divine being could these mortals be free of the divine.
However, Nos-Hundred-Hands frowned at the ice magic that the creature tried to use to escape. It didn't know that Nos had taken it and was even now examining it. It was full of panic and fear. That was unfortunate. Nos didn't want to cause it ill.
That ice magic, though, was disappointingly diffuse. It drew power from the background energies of the universe, the castoffs of the gods as they moved about the world and as they acted. It was effective, but the Kalamar was capable of more.
Nos looked at it in the spiritual realm and, with careful tendrils of will, nudged its construct. He enhanced the element of Umi that was within the creature, strengthening that connection. And the power of the creationary aspect of water surged against the creature. So much power, but the mortal form had difficulty holding it. It forced the power of creation to take a specific form.
~Also Near Kalamar Lands~
Ubla sank back in the water as the ice forms she had created broke apart. There was a power here that seemed to be confusing her magic. She could form ice, but it broke apart almost as soon as she had it shaped into something useful.
She had never heard of the tides pulling someone along as it had her, but one moment she was practicing her craft on the outskirts of her town, and the next moment she had been carried far away and crammed in this crevice. The force of the water had nearly sealed the mouth of the cave shut. It should have been simple to use ice to stabilize the hollow and expand the exit, but her ice just couldn't take old.
As she tried to catch her breath (liquidy breath, but breath nonetheless), she felt a nudge within her, like her intestines were displeased. But the sensation traveled up her body. It felt as if something was pulling... no, pushing... no, pulling on her. There was a moment of extreme pain, but that passed almost as soon as she felt it.
Taking another breath in, the waters around her grew silent and still. Ubla prepared to try her ice again, but another power was waiting for her. It was there, like the riptide, trying to overwhelm her, and she had no choice but to give in. She Pushed, and water began to flow away from her. It carried her along with it, bashing her against the entrance of the cave, it also tore at the entrance of the cave, forcing it open, and carrying the earth away to only Nos knows were.
It took a moment to realize that she was floating free. She was bruised and scraped, bleeding, but when the understanding sunk in, Ubla dashed towards home.
Blood in the water, however, called to hunters of the deep. Teethy fish followed her, preparing to attack. Again Ubla breathed in, and again the waters around her grew stagnant. She tried to use her ice, but there was that riptide within her again, and she let it out. Water flowed against the fish. Now, not in the cave, Ubla was able to resist its pull on herself, but it whisked the predators away.
Tentatively, the Kalamar turned in the direction of her home. She released the power again and swam into the flow. It, however, was the power of the rising tide, and it pulled her away from her target and towards land. It took her days to figure out how to use her new power to get home.
PP
1PP Guide (1 from Travel) - Unami: Nos teaches the Kalamar Umi-based magic. This is in particular the power of water currents (that is, water traveling from one place to another). A magic user draws in the power of a current from water nearby. Stored, this is called the Riptide. However, there are two sides to this power. When drawn from water receding, it is the Low Tide. When drawn from approaching water, it is the High Tide. When using the power, High Tide will create a strong current, originating from the user, away from the center of the nearest tidal body of water. The power of Low Tide causes a current flowing towards the center of the nearest tidal body of water.
These currents apply to anything malleable enough to flow. So, a current can be set up in air, lava, jello pudding, etc. The force of the established current is dependent on how much Riptide the user expends over a given period of time. Say a user sits through a real high tide, absorbing all the power. As long as that high tide lasted, the user could reproduce a high tide of the same power. Or, for half that time, a high tide force twice as powerful. Or for a quarter of that time, a force 4 times as powerful, and so on.
The cost for this magic, however, is that the user must drain the current and life from water first. This leaves the water stagnant and unhealthy. It is great for Krulsk's sea creatures, but not for normal ones.
Like with Lokasanna, this magic is "genetic," although all sea creatures have a little connection to Umi, and so could potentially develop this power (if they happen to breed in such a way to make these traits strong).
2 general,1 Impose, remaining
1PP Guide (1 from Travel) - Unami: Nos teaches the Kalamar Umi-based magic. This is in particular the power of water currents (that is, water traveling from one place to another). A magic user draws in the power of a current from water nearby. Stored, this is called the Riptide. However, there are two sides to this power. When drawn from water receding, it is the Low Tide. When drawn from approaching water, it is the High Tide. When using the power, High Tide will create a strong current, originating from the user, away from the center of the nearest tidal body of water. The power of Low Tide causes a current flowing towards the center of the nearest tidal body of water.
These currents apply to anything malleable enough to flow. So, a current can be set up in air, lava, jello pudding, etc. The force of the established current is dependent on how much Riptide the user expends over a given period of time. Say a user sits through a real high tide, absorbing all the power. As long as that high tide lasted, the user could reproduce a high tide of the same power. Or, for half that time, a high tide force twice as powerful. Or for a quarter of that time, a force 4 times as powerful, and so on.
The cost for this magic, however, is that the user must drain the current and life from water first. This leaves the water stagnant and unhealthy. It is great for Krulsk's sea creatures, but not for normal ones.
Like with Lokasanna, this magic is "genetic," although all sea creatures have a little connection to Umi, and so could potentially develop this power (if they happen to breed in such a way to make these traits strong).
2 general,1 Impose, remaining
Somehow, he had expected more. Much more... certainly, his Voidlings were a real threat that made others fear. Certainly, others had turned into them of their own madness and hate. Certainly, when they were formed they could often spread like a virus, and dangerously... but it was all so much LESS than he had anticipated!
Far fewer of the intelligent races began to hate, or grow insane, or burn themselves out enough to become Voidlings than he'd expected. Each race was lucky to break double digits in the number of them each year... which while trivial to a god, was a long time for these races. And those who did turn into Voidlings were lucky to infect five others before they were all summarily rounded up and slaughtered to prevent the spread. And the Voidlings themselves lacked any form of intelligence to use trickier tactics, or have a wider goal in mind... he had created not a menace, but a NUISANCE. And it irked him. Oh how it irked him.
Pah. He would think of ways to improve on this slight mistep some other time... but for now, he had noticed something. It had first happened when he had entered that fool Kilwik's dream... who still held the record for the largest outbreak at twenty, depressingly. It had been a sense of... something. Something large that tapped into the very essence of what he was. It felt like his dream was... in a bubble, floating in the middle of an ocean. And whenever he saw someone turn into one of his Voidlings... it seemed as though it was not a simple matter of their minds ceasing to exist. They went... somewhere. Somehow...
His curiosity was getting the better of him. It was better to simply give in rather than try and fight it at this stage. If he followed the trail of their mental essence, perhaps he could find... wherever this...
Okay, this was weird. Krulsk had barely willed himself to follow the trail, but now he was... somewhere else entirely. Someplace that seemed to vaguely mirror the world he knew, but seemed so... utterly alien. It had lights instead of life, and felt... vaguely metaphysical.
The Cognitive Realm... that came to his mind unbidden. Was that the name of this place? It seemed so... but whatever it was, it seemed to have a lot of... potential...
Spirits were being siphoned off, somehow, from the spiritual realm. Diverted, deliberately, by some outside force. Immediately incensed, Death followed.
Passage through the planes was a strange thing. It wasn't like walking from one room to another, it wasn't like crossing some threshold. Death knew that the planes, or at least most of them, were all stacked up on one another. Literally, other planes of existence. It took a certain greater perception, but the various planes could be reached. It was all in that shift of perception, like looking at the rain on a window, and looking beyond. He merely changed your focus. And for powerful beings such as he, so it was with the spiritual, cognitive, and physical realms. But this, this was different. This space he sought was hidden, a pocket out of sight. You couldn't see, not even in your periphery, where to shift your focus to. He imagined the possibility of a device, a sort of fixed portal into the other place, to provide a literal focus to manage the shift. He imagined it, but knew a better way.Instead, his focus followed the stream of spirits leaving this place.
And he was there. A most peculiar space. Here the spirits flowed, settling amidst the great expanses of the plane. And there in the centre, a signpost of sorts, the plane's own focus. It was a pillar grooved by water, leading up and down through holes in the ceiling and floor, respectively. And it occurred to him that there might be more to this place, that it might, in the peculiar way of planes, exhibit the kind of infinity not possible in the physical realm.
But it angered him, this place. The stench of Life was all about it, but this was a place for Death and his ilk. Or at least, these were his subjects.
Death was nothing if not the progeny of his forebears, and so he was struck by an idea. He could certainly directly oppose his maker, or he could take a leaf out of his other maker's book. Now, this certainly was not the train of thought he actually followed, having never actually met or discovered the methods of his father. But the seed of corruption was there, and so he need merely prod it along.
You would be an instrument of War, I did decree. Well, here is your time.
And at the heart of the afterlife, Death did plant a heart of darkness. Or perhaps, a heart of steel. The black, slumbering god was taken, from the folds of Death's embrace, and wrapped in the layers of the plane so deep, he could not again be found. And where his dark influence spread, darkness did claim the hearts of those that called this place home. And where his dark influence did spread, a black and terrible menace did spread, for the Heart of Darkness was a Heart of Metal, and wicked, darkly glinting metal did form, like a growing, living wave. Death did watch as the influence spread to the fluttering, angelic denizens of the plane. Those who were cursed by its vile touch were transformed, stretched, and deformed. Great beasts with dark wings now shadowed the once-bright plane, turning their hungry maws on their former brethren. And Death smiled. And was gone.
PP
4 PP Shape - Angel of War - A new species of Angel evolves, more violent and deadly than before. Where the previous was a mixture of man and owl, this one incorporates more leonine elements, in its savage claws and yawning maw. And they are also considerably huger. Despite their rather bestial appearance, they are still extremely skilled war-makers and are possessed of a deadly cunning.
2 PP Nourish Land - Aur - A wave of growing, almost living, black metal, begins to spread from the Body of Aurum, an ore particularly suited to crafting cruel and wickedly sharp instruments of death.
2 PP Craft Domain - Death lays claim to the Metal domain.
As a note, I am placing my War Domain PP in the Body of Aurum, which now exists within Toe's afterlife, hidden. I will use it from there as an expression of the dark influence the Body of Aurum exerts. If Kal does return, he should find himself safe, and in the middle of the afterlife.
2 PP Nourish Land - Aur - A wave of growing, almost living, black metal, begins to spread from the Body of Aurum, an ore particularly suited to crafting cruel and wickedly sharp instruments of death.
2 PP Craft Domain - Death lays claim to the Metal domain.
As a note, I am placing my War Domain PP in the Body of Aurum, which now exists within Toe's afterlife, hidden. I will use it from there as an expression of the dark influence the Body of Aurum exerts. If Kal does return, he should find himself safe, and in the middle of the afterlife.
But there was Nos, apparently toying with a lone Kalmar. How odd... Hello Nos Umi projected, How are you? In his mind, Umi had decided to get to the bottom of the knowledge god's actions, but asking flat-out would perhaps be too blunt. Perhaps not, but in this situation, Umi chose to listen to the nagging doubts in his head.
They are a challenge for you because they represent the opposite of controllability. Not-Friend Loki is the embodiment of Chaos, he-who-will-not-be-tamed, while Enemy Krulsk is The Corruptor, who will undermine whatever control you think you may have over him. Both are not likely to bow to you unless you are incredibly clever. I -
Ikola broke off mid-sentance. A feeling was growing inside the God, power building and flowing upwards, trying to break free.
Forgive me. The god said. It is time to create Life once more.
The shimmering threads floated downwards to the ground, losing their coherent bird-shape and becoming a simple mat of glowing light, which lightly touched the ground, then fell beneath it into the soil. There, it found a small cave in the dirt, a pocket of air more than anything, and perfect for the idea that Ikola wished to give form. Dissociating from one another, except for a few strands that stayed together to support the frayed threads from Krulsk's attack, Ikola formed a ball that lined the cavern in gleaming strands. Life itself flowed inwards, looking like fine, floating dust. Where the dust touched, it fused together, and soon a small bit of matter floated in the middle of the chamber, supported by the life-stuff approaching from all sides and growing larger and larger. Soon, it became apparent that what was being formed was wood of some form, a massive underground root that grew larger and larger until it filled the entire air pocket, pushing against the dirt. It was then that Ikola withdrew, flowing back upwards to meet the other Gods, followed by rising trunks of wood.
Ikola emerged and reformed into a bird-shaped being once more, then watched as five white trunks burst from the earth, roughly forming a pentagon around the three gods. the wood grew to roughly twenty feet in height, slim and narrow as supple branches appeared, bursting out from the central trunks and bifurcating multiple times before leaves budded and covered the extremeties. As the last leaves grew, silence overcame the small grove...
And then the trees seemed to bow, branches sweeping backwards and supple trunks curving towards Ikola and the other two. A whisper of rustling leaves, although there was no wind, filled the air, and in those rustlings were words, spoken in the dialect of the trees.
We thank you, oh creator Life, for your gift of creation. The tree said.
~The Afterlife~
The angels were alarmned at the intrusion of those that their elders had warned them about, the forces of Death and War. But the initial shock and confusion as their former compatriots strove against them was short-lived. Ikola, knowing that such an intrusion was a possibility, had put into place countermeasures that the angels could take advantage of to defend the life that existed througout the realms. The Aur had already spread to several spokes on several layers of the afterlife before the first counterstrike was organized. Angels called upon the powers of their God and, with loud cracks that echoed throughout the afterlife, the bridges connecting the Aur-infested regions of the plane broke into pieces, sealing off the encroaching wave of twisting black metal.
Now only small amounts of the metal could leap from spoke to spoke, trying to gain purchase in the new spoke. To counteract this as well, the angels turned to the waters of life that Ikola had left them, and praying to their creator, they willed the water to form a new type of life, one not seen in the Prime planes, but unique (for now) to the Afterlife. Looking like large worms on a hundred skittering legs, these metal-eaters roamed the many layers of the afterlife, their acidic mouths and hot, molten stomachs dissolving and destroying the small pockets of Aur that attempted to spread.
Finally, the Angels prayed that their God grant them the cunning necessary to outwit and outfight their corrupted brethren. And their prayers were granted. Master tactitians appeared from the ranks of the angelic host, providing the angels with a profound edge in battle as they utilized their smaller and more agile forms to enact complicated tactical manuvers that caught their counterparts, used to fighting on their own, off guard, driving them back to the Aur-infested spokes.
4 PP (1 generic, 1 life, 2 generate): Shape Race: Alda. The Alda are a sentient race of trees, and are the basis for tales about haunted groves and benevolent glades. Each Alda is, primarially, a massive root buried deep below the earth, from which individual 'trees' burst forth from this underground root network (similar to Alder trees in the real world). With effort, these offshoots have the capability to grow incredibly quickly. Individual 'trees' are capable of movement, able to swing branches, bend trunks, and even utilize items like weapons and tools. They may even speak, although to learn their language of rustling leaves, pollens and creaking branches takes significant dedication. Inherently solitary creatures due to their nature (two root structures can't occupy the same space very well, most Alda rarely see another of their kind. Alda are capable of either self-fertilization or gene-sharing through root-root melding in which two Alda twine distal roots around one another until they fuse together.
1 PP (Empower): Harm Plane: To protect the remainder of the plane of Life Eternal from the Aur, the angels detonate many of the bridges connecting the spokes of the wheels that make up the afterlife
2 PP (1 domain, 1 generic): Spawn Creature: Metal-eaters. Large worms that move on segmented legs both over and through the earth, they consume and digest small pockets of metal wherever they find it... which they are quite good at as they are capable of 'smelling' metal nearby.
2 PP (generic): Guide Race: The Angels become master tactitians, notably better than the angels of war. As a result, they begin to harry and push their foes back to more defensible positions.
0/Life:0 /0/0/0/1
The opaque air shimmer seem to ripple, then solidified into a grey blob in the air. "I have been called Order."
Story
Krulsk flees the scene of his and Ikola's fight, eventually coming to a stop far from the forest. Here, he fries the earth, creating 'The Fields of Fire' and populating it with life. Eventually, flowing through lava, he comes back to the ocean. There, he finds a Sahaguin mage, and, through his power, injects corruption into Magic itself. Anyone who draws too heavily on the powers of Magic, who is too filled with lust for power and hatred of others becomes a Voidling, a horrible monster.
Back at the Mirage Valley, Ikola, Proprietas and Falrn begin to form an alliance to control the actions of Krulsk and Loki. Ikola also creates the afterlife and sentient trees known as the Aspa.
Elsewhere, Magic flourishes, as the Sahaguin learn chaos-magic while the Kalamar are gifted by both Umi and Nos with Cyromancy and Hydromancy, respectively. These Cyromancers become the leaders and priests of the Kalamar nation. Nos also creates the basis of magics to look forward and backwards in time, although these actions come with a cost.
Umi leaves the oceans and finds Order, and encourages him to choose a name. As they approach Loki, Order takes his leave, not wishing to fight with his opposite. Instead, the God travels upwards tohis moons, discovering to his surprize that he had accidentally ascened the God of Dreams within one of the orbs.
Nos and Omus begin to speak. Nos wishes to know Omus' name, and, as usual, EVERYTHING about the other God. Omus tries to answer, but Nos keeps interrupting, to Omus' consternation. Eventually, the two notice that they are not, in fact, alone. Far above, a watcher watches. Suddenly, Death appears in the form of a man carrying an umbrella. After a short conversation, Nos warns Death that Omus lies, then leaves the two of them to speak as he travels upwards to the Elder Thing. Omus then reshapes the world into a new image, smoothing mountains and epanding the seas as grasses and forests spread across the remaining earth. Omus also nullifies some of the scariness of the Mirage Valley by creating a magic hourglass which displays how much time is left before the watcher dies. Of course, with all the trees in the way, this is often a bit tricky to ascertain when, exactly, the switch will occur.
Elsewhere, Loki creates a home for the Sahaguin and Sons of Dagon, ringing it with many dangers, and a large series of caverns opens up under the earth, filled with deadly things.
Finally, War war comes to the afterlife as Death plants the sleeping God of Metal into the plane, creating new enemies for the angels and sparking a conflict.
Stats:
Level/Domain(s)/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 5/Life:2 NEW DOMAIN *2 /2/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /2/0/0/1
Death. 5/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 Metal:1/0/1/2/0
Umi. 3/Ocean:2 Ice:1/1/0/0/0
Nos. 3/Knowledge:1 Travel:1/1/1/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 3/Time:1 Evolution:1 Chromomancy:1/0/1/0/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 2/Protection:1/1/0/0/0
Loki: 3/Chaos:2 NEW DOMAIN/1/0/1/0
Order: 3/Order:1 Moon:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/1/0
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Zeym:2/Dream:1/0/0/0/0
Largely forgotten on the acid beaches where Krulsk's mountains and Umi's seas had done battle, the algae and grasses which thrived in the aftermath spread and grew in great tangles. The frogs, salamanders and other amphibians who lived there found a niche to which they were well suited, and soon, one species emerged as the kind of the newly-born swamplands.
Meanwhile, where the pleasant forests of Ikola had best managed to re-establish themselves, the small furry beings which lived there also established a new order. As they struggled for survival, a predator emerged - leaner, faster and more dangerous than the others, it feasted on their flesh and grew to rule the densest of the forests.
PP and Actions
PP: 2 General + 2 Evolution; from reset, 3 General, 1 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
1 PP (Evolution) - Spawn: Qib
The Qib are an amphibious race of frog-like creatures which live in the swamps along the Acid Coast. The Qib are highly resistant to acid, have an acidic and poisonous coating to their skin, and are well-muscled and quite strong, for their size, a little like Chimpanzees. This, combined with their poisonous nature, can make them something of a threat to the sentient races of the world.
The Qib are a 2-PP spawn (using the Age bonus).
2 PP (Evolution) - Spawn: Smilodon
In the densest of the forests, a predator rises. The Smilodon, or Sabre-Toothed Tiger, hunts other animals for prey. Smilodon are somewhat rare, but having sacrificed intelligence for lean efficiency, a single one could probably overcome most Sahaguin or Mazunti, though the two would likely never meet.
The Smilodon are a 3-PP spawn (using the Age bonus).
PP remaining: 5 General, 1 Time, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
PP: 2 General + 2 Evolution; from reset, 3 General, 1 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
1 PP (Evolution) - Spawn: Qib
The Qib are an amphibious race of frog-like creatures which live in the swamps along the Acid Coast. The Qib are highly resistant to acid, have an acidic and poisonous coating to their skin, and are well-muscled and quite strong, for their size, a little like Chimpanzees. This, combined with their poisonous nature, can make them something of a threat to the sentient races of the world.
The Qib are a 2-PP spawn (using the Age bonus).
2 PP (Evolution) - Spawn: Smilodon
In the densest of the forests, a predator rises. The Smilodon, or Sabre-Toothed Tiger, hunts other animals for prey. Smilodon are somewhat rare, but having sacrificed intelligence for lean efficiency, a single one could probably overcome most Sahaguin or Mazunti, though the two would likely never meet.
The Smilodon are a 3-PP spawn (using the Age bonus).
PP remaining: 5 General, 1 Time, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
"I can not be every where. My drakes are out there, but it seems there isn't much for them to do. "
Falrn lays down and curls up upon himself. After what seems like a few seconds, he raises up and underneath lay many eggs. Eggs of many different colors. You are my children. You are what is going to be the ones to rule this realm. When you go forth, remember you are regal, strong and powerful. Guard this world like you would your own children. Only the strongest may be rulers, and you my children are going to be the strongest of them all." And with that Falrn left. No sooner than he left than the first Dragons have hatched.
God Actions
5PP Shape: 3 generic + 2 Generate = Dragons are born into the world. Highly adaptable, cunning, and strength, they are the epitome of the sentient races at this point.
1gn/2prot/0gen/0/0/0
If you don't mind, I'm using my PP from last week in this. Sorry I haven't been posting much lately, but it has gotten fairly busy. Things are starting to settle down now and I should resume normal posting again.
5PP Shape: 3 generic + 2 Generate = Dragons are born into the world. Highly adaptable, cunning, and strength, they are the epitome of the sentient races at this point.
1gn/2prot/0gen/0/0/0
If you don't mind, I'm using my PP from last week in this. Sorry I haven't been posting much lately, but it has gotten fairly busy. Things are starting to settle down now and I should resume normal posting again.
Proprietas then ran past Ikola and Falrn, and jumped into the middle of the canyon. Moments later, he rose up on a mountain with a completely flat top, then right at the top, large, sharp, rocks poked out in eight directions, and a large rock hut was formed of rock. Minutes later the two gods noticed the tower was being built by animals native to the canyon. Proprietas walked in, and started to scheme.
[SPOILER=God Block][SPOILER]2 PP Guide: Proprietas commands the local wildlife to make a mountain in the middle of the canyon, where he shall spend many times scheming and preparing. 1 PP, 1 control PP.
The moons imposed a certain order on the world, but it was not a simple one. The great, rocky monoliths commanded the oceans of the world, tugging them this way and that, and producing tides. However, where one moon would have given rise to simple high and low tides, the three together created a far more complicated pattern.
For the most part, the tides were in a constant state of flux, moving up and down with little discernable cohesion. When the moons aligned, however, their effects were far more pronounced.
Down on the planet below, Omus saw that the Qib were not the only species of note that have adapted to such dramatic changes in their environment. Some kind of bird had taken up residence near the water's edge, using the tides as a handy way to get food. What would they be like with a little encouragement, he wondered? Well, there was only one way to find out...
Omus gave the birds a little more time to adapt, and sure enough, they became masters of the tide, laying their eggs in the lowest tide to hatch in the highest.
PP and Actions
1 PP - Spawn - Tidestalkers
"Tidestalkers" are a kind of large bird which have adapted to the triple-moon environment in which they've evolved. At extra-low tide, they lay their eggs in the sand, where they are quickly covered up by the sea. The young hatch just before extra-high tide, which carries them up the shore. When the tides receed, they feed on the marine life left behind before moving inland. Tidestalker chicks are amphibious, but they lose this trait when they reach maturity.
(This is a 1PP Spawn, not using the Age bonus. Tidestalkers can be vicious, but are a mild threat at best)
PP remaining: 4 General, 1 Time, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
1 PP - Spawn - Tidestalkers
"Tidestalkers" are a kind of large bird which have adapted to the triple-moon environment in which they've evolved. At extra-low tide, they lay their eggs in the sand, where they are quickly covered up by the sea. The young hatch just before extra-high tide, which carries them up the shore. When the tides receed, they feed on the marine life left behind before moving inland. Tidestalker chicks are amphibious, but they lose this trait when they reach maturity.
(This is a 1PP Spawn, not using the Age bonus. Tidestalkers can be vicious, but are a mild threat at best)
PP remaining: 4 General, 1 Time, 1 Chronomancy and 1 Impose
Here, in the midst of the life that flowed under and over the earth, the filaments dissolved from bird form once more, dissociating into the loose mat of Life that had been its first form, the one worn when THe Enemy had first attacked Ikola for the first time. Ikola was thinking of The Enemy. Both times they had fought, Ikola had barely escaped with its life, this last time only because of the surprising creation of Mirage Valley and the presence of Friend Falrn. The first had provided distraction, the second... deterrance.
Ikola thought for a moment. It would not do to follow around Friend Falrn everywhere the dragon-god went. That was cowardance, and Ikola was no coward. But it was impossible to not acknowledge that Enemy Krulsk was far too powerful to seek out in combat. No, there must be a third option, a middle option. It must be possible to create a being that, while not a God in its own right, would be a companion to Ikola, helping the god watch for the ambushes that Enemy Krulsk was so fond of and protecting life threatened by Enemy Krulsk's creations.
Not a God, but not a Beast. Intelligent, but not Divine.
It must begin with the spark of Life. Ikola concentrated, pulling away the strands of reality before it, opening up a small rift to the Afterlife, just large enough to reach through and grab some of the River of Life's water, which floated before Ikola, glowing with latent power.
Ikola wrapped its strands around the water, pouring more lifeforce and energy into it. As it grew, Ikola loosed its hold, eventually peeling off to one side and allowing the glowing energy to expand on its own as Ikola met its demands.
And what demands it had! Ikola began to grow concerned, feeling the creation drawing more and more and more energy from the God, far more than had been used to raise any of its children, or even the massive beasts that it had created long ago. But the pull did not seem out of control, so Ikola simply allowed it to occur, feeling confident that, if necessary, the god could stop the transfer of power at a moment's notice.
The light was moving now, floating gently towards a small copse of trees, which seemed almost to reach out to embrace it as it approached, flowing around the upper branches...
And then, with a sudden pull, ripping the trees from the ground! Ikola felt the connection fade to nothing as, shocked, the god watched the trees wrap around the light, trunks warping and joining together here and there until the light was contained within a living cage of trees, branches and leaves. Suddenly, four massive feathered wings burst forth from the caged light, strong and looking nothing like the filamentous wings of the Phoeni or Ikola itself.
Ikola watched as its creation flapped its massive wings and approached Ikola.
Do you understand me? Ikola asked hesitantly.
the tree branches rustled as the light shook within the cage.
Does that mean yes?
more rustling.
Can you speak?
The light dimmed slightly.
Does that mean no?
Rustle.
Well, this wasn't exactly what Ikola had had in mind when starting, but it would have to do. A silent 50-foot wingspan ally/bodyguard was better than nothing after all. And yet...
Ikola watched as the being settled to the earth, and followed its form, which dwarfed the God's own, downwards.
I shall name you Pet Revillark. Does that suit you?
Rustling.
Ikola was about to say more, when suddenly Pet Revillark began violently shaking back and forth.
Are you well? Ikola asked, floating upwards.
No response was forthcoming for about a minute as the shaking continued, the light pulsing rhythmically as the cage rattled. And then, it all stopped and Pet Revillark floated upwards before rustling a 'yes.'
Where Pet Revillark had landed was a large brown-green egg, standing upright on the earth. Ikola floated down to examine it, half paying attention to the gale force winds as Pet Revillark settled down a short distance away and began shaking again - that is, laying another egg.
Curious, Ikola settled down to see what hatched.
PP
2 PP (1 generic, 1 empower): Beget Exarch: Revillark. Revillark is a large ball of light wrapped in a living cage of wood. From all four corners of the light/cage, massive wings of white feathers spread outwards, carrying the exarch from place to place. Intelligent but unable to speak, Revillark seeks to create life in a myriad of forms.
The following are in the egg and will be revealed next post.
3 PP(1 domain, 2 generate): Shape race: Minotaur
2 PP(2 domain): Shape Race: Human
1 PP(1 generic): Shape Race: Pixie
2 PP (1 generic, 1 empower): Beget Exarch: Revillark. Revillark is a large ball of light wrapped in a living cage of wood. From all four corners of the light/cage, massive wings of white feathers spread outwards, carrying the exarch from place to place. Intelligent but unable to speak, Revillark seeks to create life in a myriad of forms.
The following are in the egg and will be revealed next post.
3 PP(1 domain, 2 generate): Shape race: Minotaur
2 PP(2 domain): Shape Race: Human
1 PP(1 generic): Shape Race: Pixie
Not dead, then. Not inert egg, but just... not ready yet. Looking over at Pet Revillark, who hovered over the several-hundred eggs protectively. Above, Ikola sensed a presence who the god had not spoken with for some time.
Knowing that returning would take no time whatsoever, Ikola traveled upwards further and further and further, until...
Hello, Not-Enemy Nos. What are you doing?
Below, a resounding CRACK! sounded as the first egg laid by Revillark opened. Within, standing, was a large, furry humanoid with massive hands and a bull's head. The minotaur blinked, stretched, and was about to take a step when it realized that he was not alone. Curled into the bottom half of the egg around the legs of the minotaur another being blinked and moved for the first time. Roughly 2/3rds the height of the minotuar, and almost completely furless aside from a head of hair, the human shifted, struggling to stand, when he realized that there were more than minotaur and human in the egg. At the very base, between the legs of the minotaur and between the extended hands and feet of the human, gossamer wings, stickily sliding open, revealed a small form with pearlescent skin that shimmered in the waning light. The pixie blinked and saw the other two inhabitants of the egg, the three races staring at one another in the shock of new birth as all around them the eggs of their brothers and sisters began to crack open.
God Block
- 1 PP Craft (1 Impose) to create the Black Pearl, a physical manifestation of his ties to the Storm Domain
- 3 PP Guide (2 Chaos/1 Storm) to cause the settlements of the Sahuagin/Locathah grow to encompass the entire island, and train them in the ways of war, and to impart the knowledge for crafting tools of war, such as weapons, siege engines, and land vehicles/watercraft.
- 1 PP Forge (1 Generate) to forge the first few engines of war for the Sahuagin/Locathah
- 1 PP Command (Generic) to create a tunnel system underneath the island used by the Priests of Dagon for sacrificial purposes and dark rites.
- 1 PP Nourish (Generic) to create carnivorous plantlife which grows in certain areas of the tunnels and disposes of the remains of Dagon's victims.
- 1 PP Harm (Generic) to spread the storm out farther than just the island, it now encompases the gulf near the island as well.
Toph
Actually, Nos is underwater, currently. So I'll assume Ikola went there, yes?
Meanwhile, several of the sea god's tentacles snaked off to inspect the changes that had been wrought in Kalmar society. They had moved, and built a large empire, of sorts. The whale that Umi had assigned to guard the old capital now resided near the new one, near the center of the ocean.
This pleased the tentacled one greatly. Additionally, a new form of magic had arisen, one that seemed to work by controlling the tides. Perhaps that was what Nos had been doing when Umi arrived. Perhaps not. He would find out soon enough.
Despite all of the wonderful things that had happened during Umi's absence, there was unrest among the Kalmar. Umi could not detect the reason as a god looking down upon them, so he resolved to join himself with a Kalmar. What could possibly go wrong?
He found the high priest, the leader of the entire nation, in the capital city. The current high priest was a descendant of Ubla, the first practitioner of Unami. He had inherited the current-magic and was also lucky enough to bear the gift of cyromancy. He was one of the few. Umi reached out to this kalmar with his mind and his divine essence. With luck, he would never notice that his god stood at his side, no, that he had become his god, and that Umi was now guiding his every action.
OOC
I'll post the story of this Klamar... later.
Descending to the deserts, Omus decided to strengthen these connections. Perhaps then, mortals who could understand the sands might glean a fragment of understanding of time itself.
Concentrating, Omus poured a measure of his power into the world's largest desert. Soon, the sands themselves resonated with the echoes of Chronomancy.
Actions and PP
2PP + 1 Chronomancy - Forge - Sands of Time
Omus creates the Sands of Time. The Sands count as an artefact, but unlike single physical objects, they manifest as a roaming patch of desert. Those who walk in to the Sands of Time may (if they survive the rigours of the desert) find themselves walking out in a different time.
The Sands are also charged with powerful temporal energy - though unpredictable, a skilled Chronomancer could feasibly channel their power to control the point in time to which he travels, or possible to cast a single very powerful chronomantic spell.
PP remaining: 2 General, 1 Time and 1 Impose
2PP + 1 Chronomancy - Forge - Sands of Time
Omus creates the Sands of Time. The Sands count as an artefact, but unlike single physical objects, they manifest as a roaming patch of desert. Those who walk in to the Sands of Time may (if they survive the rigours of the desert) find themselves walking out in a different time.
The Sands are also charged with powerful temporal energy - though unpredictable, a skilled Chronomancer could feasibly channel their power to control the point in time to which he travels, or possible to cast a single very powerful chronomantic spell.
PP remaining: 2 General, 1 Time and 1 Impose
The Aur that grew riotously through the afterlife was seemingly untameable. It raged like an open flame, relentless as the crashing waves. It tumbled and fell about itself forming beautifully intricate, but wickedly sharp, peaks, valleys and grooves.
But to the Angels of War, it did not prove quite so untameable. With their fearsome demeanor, they beat back the tide of the wave, and even shaped it, forming it into a massive, unstoppable machine of war.
Now, when the wings of the Angels darknened the sky, the ground was swept up in a deadly blackness as well.
Again and again, the Angels of War struck devastating blows to their more genteel kin, crippling their numbers. For they were, of course, the masters of warfare. None could be their equal.
PP
2 PP Command - The Angels of War learn to shape and control the tide of the Aur, using it as a deadly machine for war.
2 PP Nourish - The Angels of War feed upon the very essence of battle, and become stronger for it. This is their element, this is where they prosper.
2 PP Harm - The regular Angels suffer crippling defeats in their war against their larger, more well-equipped cousins.
2 PP Nourish - The Angels of War feed upon the very essence of battle, and become stronger for it. This is their element, this is where they prosper.
2 PP Harm - The regular Angels suffer crippling defeats in their war against their larger, more well-equipped cousins.
Story:
For unknown reasons, Loki fades from the conciousness of the world. In his absence, his exarch, Dagon, takes over, rising to full godhood and begining the task of crafting the Sahaguin into a working warforce. Elsewhere, Nos provides the Mazunti a new form of magic, based on his own nature.
At the Mirage Valley, Proprietas creates a mountain in the middle of the valley. Ikola, leaving the valley, settles to the earth and creates an exarch who then lays eggs that contain three linked races within them. Falrn, also leaving, creates Dragons.
Omus, waiting and observing, fills out the lifecycles of the world before creating a patch of sand in the desert that has remarkable powers: the ability to travel through time.
Finally, in the World Beyond, the war tilts back towards the new Angels of War as they adapt to the tactics of their foes.
Stats:
keep in mind that if you posted last week, your unused PP can roll over... which is good, as several of you (and me) have lots of PP remaining!
Level/Domain(s)/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 5/Life:3 NEW DOMAIN *1 /2/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /2/0/0/1
Death. 5/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 Metal:1/0/1/2/0
Umi. 3/Ocean:2 Ice:1/1/0/0/0
Nos. 3/Knowledge:1 Travel:1 NEW DOMAIN/1/1/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 3/Time:1 Evolution:1 Chromomancy:1/0/1/0/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 3/Protection:1 NEW DOMAIN/2/0/0/0
Loki: 3/Chaos:2 Storm:1/1/0/1/0
Order: 3/Order:1 Moon:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/1/0
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Zeym:2/Dream:1/0/0/0/0
PP
PP after reset: 5 General, 2 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy and 2 Impose
PP after reset: 5 General, 2 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy and 2 Impose
"..........."
The spark could have lain there, content to rest in the substance, to absorb more into itself and become stronger, but something inside of it would not let it stop. Something forced it onward, making it continue. It pulsed once, questing around its resting place. Another pulse, further outward, reaching out and touching the possibly-recently dead fire drakes. It focused on them, touching the former minds and souls that these beings, copying them, forming their own.
".....new......."
These newly formed divine constructs touched the heart of the energy that boiled in the pool, and instantly bonded With that, the entity began to push itself outward, seeking to leave the place where it was. The energy in the lava condensced, destroying the lava and leaving only the raw heat behind, a densely shimmering patch in the air. It struggled, pushed itself away, and finally left the pool (now devoid of anything other than the semi-permanent mark of a divine birthplace), and quested upward, exploring as it went.
".....More.....more....."
Ikola had transitioned into a seal-like shape in order to navigate the ocean properly, and wagged its body non-comittally as Nos began his usual barrage of questions.
Life is well, Not-Enemy Nos. Although I have run afoul of Enemy Krulsk since we last met one another.
Ikola briefly outlined the fight and what had happened since it and Nos had last parted company, purposefully skirting around the creation of the World Beyond as it did not wish to share with one so curious an entirely new place of... potential research. The World Beyond was the victory over Enemy Death, and the fewer people who knew about it, the better.
Ikola bowed in the direction of Umi and followed the God's tentacles into the Kalamar-controlled areas. Facinated, Ikola examined the beings from a distance, observing them as they built homes and temples, utilized their special magics and created social structures. The god watched as a high priest commanded others, and was facinated.
Not-Enemy Nos, Not-Enemy Umi. What is this that I am observing? What are they building, and why are they not fighting one another for living space and food?
~The Hatching Plain~
The humans, minotaurs and pixies stumbled out of their shells and looked around at one another, confused and afraid as they emerged within a new world. Above them, the Exarch Revillark beat its wings slowly, floating in a loose circle around its children. It cast its focus further and further outwards, searching for threats, and eventually found one, no two, directly above it. Rushing upwards, it soon confronted the two gods near the moons, rustling menacingly.
~The World Beyond~
Beset by their larger and more talented foes and driven back towards the central pillar, the Angels watched helplessly as the Aur spread, leaping from wedge to wedge carried by their evil cousins. A beachhead was being established for the forces of Death, and the Angels were not equipted to fight.
And so they offered the souls they recovered from the Spiritual Realm a choice: Run and flee from the Aur, which will eventually catch everyone in time, or join and fight. Although most of the souls were afraid, or had died traumatically, a small fraction of the souls agreed. Working with one another and with the volunteer souls, the Angels called forth the power of the Life Spring and transformed the volunteer souls into the guardians they required.
Taller than the Angels of War and shining with golden radiance, the Angels of Life had a humanoid body and an eagle's head and beak, with wide white wings. Carrying gleaming sword and shield, they flew out from the pilar and drove the Angels of War backwards and preventing the spread of the Aur beyond the wedges it had already corrupted.
4 PP (1 Life, 3 Generic): Shape Race: Angels of Life. Tall guardians of Life that protect The World Beyond from the Angels of War. the Angels of Life had a humanoid body and an eagle's head and beak, with wide white wings
5/Life:2 NEW DOMAIN:2 /2/0/1/1
Turning back to the world below, however, he did see one unforseen consequence of his "experiment". Tiny fragments of divine energy seemed to have been scattered across the world, shreds of power invisible to the mortal eye, they did not have a corporeal form... they did not even really exist, not in any given place. They seemed to be simply the... idea... of divinity, and yet they floated and blew in the breeze like the leaves of a tree.
Hmm... the breeze. What caused the air to move so? Omus looked more closely, and he saw the stars burning the desert around the equator. The hot air boiled away, causing currents which swirled and blew like the currents of the ocean caused by the moons. That was something he could work with. As he had set the stars in a cycle of night and day, so the god of time would turn the wheel of the winds.
Omus blew on the seas, and great clouds of spray began to emerge. Carried by the hot air, they tumbled through the atmosphere like the strands of energy. Soon, clouds formed, lifted by air currents, which in turn rained down upon the world below, feeding the forests of the world. Omus poured more energy into them, and the bank of cloud grew, larger and large, taller and taller. As the top cooled, it flattened like a great anvil, until suddenly, there was a terrific flash! The anvil rumbled like it had been struck with a hammer. Lightning and thunder burst from its heart.
Then, the rain came, pouring from the heavens above to the earth below. When it finished, the clouds would brake apart and the air would clear... then soon afterwards, the cycle would begin again. Omus smiled. Cycles were what the world was made of. And yet... what was this? This storm, the first of all storms, was not just more terrible than its children would be. The strands of divinity had been caught in its thunderous embrace. Inside the cloud, something was happening, the air flickering with more than just lightning. Something there was... alive.
Actions and PP
1 General + 2 Time - Beget - Altuna'Rhai
Omus sets the cycle of clouds and rain in order, creating weather systems and terrfying cumulonimbus clouds. In the process, however, he unwittingly gives birth to the god of Lightning.
PP remaining: 1 General, 1 Evolution
1 General + 2 Time - Beget - Altuna'Rhai
Omus sets the cycle of clouds and rain in order, creating weather systems and terrfying cumulonimbus clouds. In the process, however, he unwittingly gives birth to the god of Lightning.
PP remaining: 1 General, 1 Evolution
Hallowing winds flowed around the strange form, whisking and twisting around itself, sending out waves of torrentuous water towards the earth below. The storm cloud stayed together for a long time-- alomst too long. Other clouds around it had faded to mere strands of fog or have disappeared completely. This one was a mighty stormcloud-- a hammer, in its regard.
A bellow...
As if anything could be matched, a jagged line of luminous light zipped across the skyline and impacted the ground at such speeds, it would be almost incomprehensible even for a mere creature to behold. One would have to be quick to witness the beauty of the jagged light, for as soon as it appeared, it vanished, leaving in its place a booming, bone-chilling crack that vibrated the landscape with astounding force.
A spark.
As soon as the jagged light disappeared, the ground below suffered from a minor divot in the earth where the bolt had impacted. Tiny sparks of divinity jumped around the crater in a shapeless, ambiguous form. For a while, the sparks seemed to just circle and jump from one side of the crater to the other.
A spark...
One by one, the sparks jumped toward the center, expanding and contracting in unison to create a shape. More and more sparks joined the massive huddle, and not long before all of them jumped into the center did something astonishing occur.
The spark!
In a flash, the sparks ignited and shaped themselves into a recognizeable figure. Two arms and two legs, a masculine torso, and a straight face. It was too bright to see any fine details, but it could not be any more distinguishable. The light faded in most of the figure's body to a pale tan color. Only its hair remained a trail of dancing sparks. Some of these sparks surrounded the figure to form a tall cloth-like robe that trailed off into sparks towards the bottom. Two rings of divine energy formed around the figure's left arm, which had a set of inscriptions upon them. The figure tried its best to examine the scriptures, but led to no avail.
It was more interested in the landscape around it. The figure gazed about the strange earth that expanded in all side around it. It appeared as though it was in a particularly dry area, though it had no sense of what kind of biome it was in or where even it was. It raised its leg and stepped outside of the misshapen crater, where the ground crackled underneath its feet. It felt at peace when it began to walk, but at the same time felt a sense of emptiness. Nothing could be seen as far as it could see. All it saw were a bundle of clouds floating about the sky and various other terrain in the horizon.
The clouds...
It was all too familiar with the clouds, and soon the figure began to feel itself float about the air as though it was carried by some mystical air current toward the free-floating puffs of water and dust that freely floated about the lands below. The figure touched down on the top of the cloud and, as thought it were a solid block of land, sat down and took in a deep breath.
Peace.
Excelling in their own environments, the more powerful of the beasts of the world continue to dominate their individual niches. For creatures like the Smilodon, this means they grow faster and leaner as they compete with each other, growing to be truly deadly hunters. For the Qib, however, a crafty intelligence is what sets them apart from other beasts. These amphibian creatures soon develop tool use and pack tactics, and it is not long before they grow what seems to be a frog-like sentience.
Actions and PP
1PP + 1 Evolution - Shape - Qib-Atha
The frog-like Qib diverge into two species - the Qib-Atha, a sentient, tribal race of hunter-gatherers and the Qib-Ugga, a degenerate predator with more strength, but far less intelligence.
The "Qib" of the previous age form a common ancestor to both species, the same way humans are related to apes.
[Mechanically, the Qib become the Qib-Ugga, and the Qib-Atha are a newly-Shaped race]
1PP + 1 Evolution - Shape - Qib-Atha
The frog-like Qib diverge into two species - the Qib-Atha, a sentient, tribal race of hunter-gatherers and the Qib-Ugga, a degenerate predator with more strength, but far less intelligence.
The "Qib" of the previous age form a common ancestor to both species, the same way humans are related to apes.
[Mechanically, the Qib become the Qib-Ugga, and the Qib-Atha are a newly-Shaped race]
There were the giants to the south, in the steaming rainforest, savage and brutal, and split into three camps: the Iron Giants, cold and unyielding, the Stone Giants, wise and everlasting, and finally the Death Giants, mysterious and dangerous.
North of them were the Goblins, in the searing desert, warlike and cruel, split as well in three: the goblins or gobs, small and treacherous, the hobgoblins or hobs, mean and calculating, and the bugbears, dark and vicious.
In time, these races developped in their own ways, growing. But they never forgot who they were: the crying races. And their cries were the stuff of nightmare everlasting.
PP
4 PP Shape - Death Giants - Mysterious and dark, the Death Giants are purveyors of the unliving.
4 PP Shape - Iron Giants - Powerful and inflexible, the Iron giants are intrinsically metallic.
4 PP Shape - Stone Giants - Wise and thoughtful, the Stone Giants are Earth incarnate.
2 PP Shape - Goblins - Sneaky and cruel, goblins are rabid makers of war.
3 PP Shape - Hobgoblins - Brutal and millitaristic, hobs take to war as their second nature.
3 PP Shape - Bugbears - Imposing and evil, bugbears are also vile warmongerers.
2 PP Nourish - A vast and imposing rainforest spreads across the southern part of the world.
1 PP Command - A desert opens up north of the new rainforest.
4 PP Shape - Iron Giants - Powerful and inflexible, the Iron giants are intrinsically metallic.
4 PP Shape - Stone Giants - Wise and thoughtful, the Stone Giants are Earth incarnate.
2 PP Shape - Goblins - Sneaky and cruel, goblins are rabid makers of war.
3 PP Shape - Hobgoblins - Brutal and millitaristic, hobs take to war as their second nature.
3 PP Shape - Bugbears - Imposing and evil, bugbears are also vile warmongerers.
2 PP Nourish - A vast and imposing rainforest spreads across the southern part of the world.
1 PP Command - A desert opens up north of the new rainforest.
- At Dagon's Maw -
Dagon focused his will, peering through the eyes of his high priest at the legions of Sahuagin and Locathah arrayed before him, flanked by war-machines and siege weapons. Beyond them, crimson sails waved on the masts of numerous warships, like a pack of hungry sharks. Stretching out his clawed hand, the high priest motioned to the landmass on the horizon, as thunder crashed overhead. The legions turned as one, and begain filing towards the ships, ready to conquer the lands around their doman.
- In the tunnels -
Below the Maw's surface, tunnels honeycombed into the depths of rock, and from these, the chants of the priests rose, like a chorus of angry spirits. The rite was under way, and Dagon's power was assured. Nothing would stop his children.
God Block
- COMING SOON!
The enitity suddenly felt compelled to follow the trail, its nature telling it to move forward, and discover more. It started to follow the energy trail, slowly realizing that it needed to move faster to reach the end any time soon. It paused, and then getting set against the world, launched itself along the trail, blazing a path through space, not realizing that he was radiating a very massive amount of energy behind him. This energy whirled into eddies in his trail, mutating the Fire Drake populace that were unlucky enough to be caught in the blast radius. The drakes found their inner fire magnified, becoming creatures made almost purely of fire.
The entity, on the other hand, suddenly found itself rapidly and immediately decelerated as it hit....something, releasing another sudden blast (albight one that was dampend). This stuff was all around, although there seemed to be larger amounts above him. It didn't know what this stuff was, just that it hurt his essence. He pushed back, heating up the area around him, which seemed to cause the stuff to stay away from him.
God Block
For reference, he just essentially did a very flashy teleport to approximately where Omus is (and almost certainly was noticed by him). The stuff that he doesn't like is rain. Which makes perfect sense, him being fire and all.
2 (1 normal, 1 domain) PP: Spawn: Ignited Fire Drakes: A special variation on Fire Drakes, these are stronger than the normal fire drake, having their bodies be made almost entirely out of fire. Fire Drakes born with Ignited Fire Drake ancestry have a chance of igniting upon going through their first heat.
PP Left: 1 Normal
For reference, he just essentially did a very flashy teleport to approximately where Omus is (and almost certainly was noticed by him). The stuff that he doesn't like is rain. Which makes perfect sense, him being fire and all.
2 (1 normal, 1 domain) PP: Spawn: Ignited Fire Drakes: A special variation on Fire Drakes, these are stronger than the normal fire drake, having their bodies be made almost entirely out of fire. Fire Drakes born with Ignited Fire Drake ancestry have a chance of igniting upon going through their first heat.
PP Left: 1 Normal
~~In the Ocean~~
The tentacled one was somewhat surprised at Ikola’s question.
You are the embodiment of life, no? Have you never seen intelligent life before? These creatures, my creations, the Kalmar, are smarter than average creatures. They have learned to build and to cooperate to achieve their goals. Those goals, to survive mostly, are no more complex than those of lesser creatures, but the way they go about accomplishing their goals is much more complex, as well as more efficient.
Umi nodded and let out a satisfied gurgle. He was happy with the way he managed to explain this concept to Ikola. He had also projected these thoughts to Nos, so that the more intelligent god might add in his own viewpoints. Umi doubted that any of this would be news to the many-handed being.
~~In the Kalmar Capital~~
Gilkt was in a state of relative panic. He was swimming back and forth through his quarters in the Central Shrine, the largest shrine to Umi that had ever been constructed, scattering the seaweed scrolls on his desk everywhere. Unrest was brewing all over Ika, the nation of the Kalmar. The citizens of Ika had always been at odds with the ruling class of cyromancer priests, unhappy about the large amount of power they could exert over daily life. In the years since Ubla had discovered the art of Unami, the unrest had only grown. Now there were two forms of magic that the average citizen had no way of accessing. Even worse, the high priest, Gilkt himself, was adept with both Unami and cyromancy. Gilkt was feared by many of his people, and that didn’t bode well.
Gilkt gurgled with displeasure. A report had just come in from one of the outer settlements. The home of one of the priests, one of Gilkt’s distant relatives who had been gifted with Unami, although only a basic understanding of it, had been damaged the night before, probably by angry villagers, although it was too soon to be sure. No one was hurt, but this was still a canary in a coal mine to GIlkt. How long would it be before he had a full-out uprising on his hands? Something must be done.
Gilkt donned a pallium, the Kalmar equivalent of a heavy cloak, to cover his face, so that he might roam the streets freely. Perhaps he would find something out there, perhaps not.
I think I understand, Not-Enemy Umi. Not brute creatures, but not Gods. I tried to make one such as this earlier. Perhaps I made such intelligent life as well. A curious thought. I feel that this form of life is just as important to protect as any other form. I shall become patron of both the giving of life, and the preservation of intelligent life, and particularly this partnership which I see before me. I shall call this partnership Civilization.
And it was so. Ikola the Life-bringer became Ikola City-shield.
I would give these Kalamar a gift for their, and your, assistance, Friend Umi. Behold!
Ikola waved and with a barely perceptable rumble, a wave of white-shelled clams and mussels and other shellfish swept over the seafloor surrounding the Kalamar capital, larger and more bountiful than any of the Kalamar had ever seen.
Ikola then breathed out into the water, speaking a word of great power that found its way to one of the Kalamar. The Kalamar stopped and stared at one of the shellfish, then expertly knelt, grabbed a stone, and fished out the juicy flesh within. Soon that Kalamar had taught others how to efficiently open shellfish, and eventually how to cultivate the great bed of food surrounding the capital such that it became even more productive than before.
2 PP (generic): Craft (and claim) Domain: Civilization.
2 PP (1 Life, 1 empower): Nourish Resource: A massive bed of delicious shellfish surrounds the Kalamar capital.
2 PP (Civilization): Guide Populace: Kalamar become excellent farmers (which in this case means they farm the shellfish)
3/Life:1 Civilization:0 /2/0/0/1
Suddenly, burning through the rainclouds like a meteorite, something came. Like a firebolt, it errupted from the world below, leaving a scorching trail in its wake.
Omus turned to regard it, puzzled. This thing appeared to be another of the divine beings who populated this world, and yet... there was something different about it, something almost familiar...
Oh splendid, splendid! Nos thought to Umi. He swayed back and forth on hundreds of dancing hands. Oooo, you have been busy, haven't you? Good, good. More to do, more to know, yes? yes!
Nos started to convey information to Umi, starting from his most recent activities with the Kalamar and working backwards. Alas, Ikola's tale was a rather interesting one, and absent-minded Nos trailed off, focusing almost entirely on the bright fishy-god. "Oh that isn't nice of Krulsk. Asking is so much easier than taking, yes? Yes! Look at me, have I had to take anything by force? No! Asking, yes asking, works so much better. Be polite and ask, and the one who gives is likely to give again. Take, though, and... well, you don't sound eager to have taken again, yes? Yes. Burning the hand that gives isn't efficient."
A different head turned to where Ikola was looking. "Ah, like Umi said, those are the Kalamar, yes, yes. So wonderfully physical, with good cognitive potential. Fine spirits, too. Good for magic. Or, at least, some kinds. They're double-blessed, but there is more than could be made to use, I think. I wonder what that would do to them. Maybe we can find out later."
The third and final head looked at Ikola. "You said you might have made thinking creatures, yes? Yes. Can we see? Oh yes, that would be lovely. I wonder what would happen if I made them able to use magic. I wonder what sort of effect their connection to you would produce."
~Mazunti Territory~
The seamounts and the kelp forest was pleasant, but the Mazunti had no predators, and the taint of the corrupter of life was far from them, so they had little illness. Death came, eventually, but he seemed to not come often enough. There was a grand surplus of population. And so, the Mazunti began to look for other places. They reached the shores of the First Ocean and made their way onto the sand. Enchanters soon got to work, infusing sand with the knowledge of stone, until great castles made of the substance rose into the air and dominated the shoreline.
It was hard to grow crops there, however. All the crops the Mazunti knew of were water-based. They shallows produced some, but they needed something more fertile. Again, they turned to their enchanters, who infused the knowledge of air into plants from the ocean. They planted seeds, and the sproutlings grew. These were different than what had been in the water, less rubbery and more rigid. In time the plants rose as high as trees, like those they saw elsewhere in the world. But their nature was in the ocean, so as the years passed, these plants grew taller still, as if they were searching for a surface that wasn't there.
The occasionally storm would break the tip of one off, slowing the skyward creep, but every year found this forest taller and closer to the moons.
The air was moist around these plants. They didn't encase themselves in water, but water seemed drawn to them, as if pulled up from the depths, or invited in from the ocean. No rain, and nearly no light, could reach the forest floor, but the trees provided mists, and the plants were used to lacking sunlight. Other things, things good to eat, grew there.
God Block
2x1PP Guide Mazunti (1 from Travel, 1 from Impose) - The Mazunti expand onto the shores of the ocean, where they build cities of sand using their enchantment.
2x1PP Nourish (general) - The Mazunti use their magic to create a kelp forest like place on "dry" land. This forest continuously reaches for the sky. In its shade grows a variety of plants that look like they better belong under the water. These plants are good food.
3PP Craft Domain (3 general) - Nos creates and claims the Magic Domain.
4 general, 1 Knowledge, 1 travel, 1 Magic, 0 impose, 2 generate remaining
2x1PP Guide Mazunti (1 from Travel, 1 from Impose) - The Mazunti expand onto the shores of the ocean, where they build cities of sand using their enchantment.
2x1PP Nourish (general) - The Mazunti use their magic to create a kelp forest like place on "dry" land. This forest continuously reaches for the sky. In its shade grows a variety of plants that look like they better belong under the water. These plants are good food.
3PP Craft Domain (3 general) - Nos creates and claims the Magic Domain.
4 general, 1 Knowledge, 1 travel, 1 Magic, 0 impose, 2 generate remaining
Map: After over an hour trying to get that freaking caldera to show up... I'm just going to tackle it next week(again). Here's what we have so far.
Story: Omus creates Maiten, god of Fire and Altuna'Rhai, god of storms, while beyond the boundaries of the physical realms, the war in The World Beyond rages onward. A myriad of races appears in the south of the world, primarially of the giant and golbinoid extractions. Under the sea, Ikola, Nos and Umi speak, and Ikola takes on the role of protector not only of life, but of civilization.
Stats
Level/Domain(s)/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 5/Life:3 Civilization *1 /2/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /2/0/0/1
Death. 5/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 Metal:1/0/1/2/0
Umi. 3/Ocean:2 Ice:1/1/0/0/0
Nos. 3/Knowledge:1 Travel:1 NEW DOMAIN/1/1/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 4/Time:1 Evolution:1 Chromomancy:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/1/1/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 3/Protection:1 NEW DOMAIN/2/0/0/0
Loki: 3/Chaos:2 Storm:1/1/0/1/0
Order: 3/Order:1 Moon:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/10
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Zeym:2/Dream:1/0/0/0/0
Maiten:2/Fire:1/0/0/0/0
PP
Placing domain point into Time, it looks like I get:
4 PP, 2 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy, 1 Impose and 1 Empower
Placing domain point into Time, it looks like I get:
4 PP, 2 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy, 1 Impose and 1 Empower
new-knowledge being-entity meeting-time-place question-response
It pulled back, and tried again, attempting to focus on specific concepts this time around, because of.....what was it, clear? Visible? Focused? Something.
new-being new-meeting response
Better? It didn't know. Single concepts seemed better, but it didn't know for sure....
"What are you?" he asked.
The figure spoke few words, but it seemed to understand the world below.
Wind blows. Land moves. Water parts. Clouds fall.
The last phrase it spoke seemed to have given itself a waking call, as it sensed a nearby presence. It looked whichever way it could see, but it saw nothing. The figure then swam its way through the soupy fog and poked its head out to find itself face to face with another being. That being spoke to the figure in the clouds, which found itself perplexed by what the other had said.
"What... are... you...? What are you. What am I?"
Almost instantaneously, the small patch of cloud around the robed individual circulated around itself and set the massive puff of dust into motion, like a huge feather-light fortress. It cast a massive shadow upon the earth below and beforelong the cloud itself started to fall-- tentacles of water and dust portruded from the mass and engulfed the land below with drenching rain, followed shortly with a flash of lighting that struck the ground, aided with a blasting wave of sound.
"I storm..."
That phrase didn't seem to make sense. It tried again.
"I am... storm lord. Rai."
It was satisfied with what it had said, but the last word that came out of its mouth seemed strange. Where did it get that word from? Did it just come out from its thoughts or was it there before it had even thought of it?
Clouds fall... "Altuna'Rhai."
PP Expenditures
1pp General -- Command: Altuna sets the clouds into a cycle of creation/ depravation as they move across the landscape. Wherever these clouds go, they carry with them the sparks of lighting.
PP: General: 1/2 | Lightning: 1/1 | Generate: 0/0 | Impose: 0/0 | Empower: 0/0
PP: General: 1/2 | Lightning: 1/1 | Generate: 0/0 | Impose: 0/0 | Empower: 0/0
Nothing lasts forever. When Omus later looked back upon the world, he saw things changing. The new, intelligent life-forms were no exception.
From somewhere, three new creatures had come. In some ways similar, they were yet very different - the minotaurs, the humans and the pixies. However, new into a world already growing wild and dangerous, they struggled to survive in the harsh lands.
Meanwhile, the Crying Races had come to terms with their heritage of death. Unlike these new hopeful life-forms, the giants and the goblinoids knew the bitterness and harshness of the world. Omus could see the shape of things to come, and that shape looked uncomfortably like war, and pain, and anguish.
Beneath the waves and on the coast, the oldest of the races, the Sahaguin and the Kalamar, continued to struggle for mastery of the oceans. Meanwhile, the Qib-Atha found success in the border between worlds, the Poison Coast where the land and the sea themselves battled for dominance.
Actions and PP
1 Time - Harm
As time wears on, the Pixies find themselves poorly adapted to the world. Hunted by the greater races, their numbers quickly dwindle.
1 Evolution - Guide
Faced with the dangers of the world, the Pixies become masters of stealth and evasion, avoiding other races and watching the world from the shadows.
1PP + 1 Chronomancy - Guide
Wise and unfathomable, the sages of the Kalamar begin to develop rudimentary Histomancy, drawing on the eternal nature of the sea. They remain mostly unsure of the source of their magic, believing it to be a branch of Unami, creating an odd blend of the two. However, the talent manifests itself in even a few of those not gifted with the magics of ice and water.
PP remaining:
3 General, 1 Time
1 Time - Harm
As time wears on, the Pixies find themselves poorly adapted to the world. Hunted by the greater races, their numbers quickly dwindle.
1 Evolution - Guide
Faced with the dangers of the world, the Pixies become masters of stealth and evasion, avoiding other races and watching the world from the shadows.
1PP + 1 Chronomancy - Guide
Wise and unfathomable, the sages of the Kalamar begin to develop rudimentary Histomancy, drawing on the eternal nature of the sea. They remain mostly unsure of the source of their magic, believing it to be a branch of Unami, creating an odd blend of the two. However, the talent manifests itself in even a few of those not gifted with the magics of ice and water.
PP remaining:
3 General, 1 Time
I have no idea where I am.
So he continued to walk, hoping to find a landmark, but instead, he found a very large plant.
Who are you?
I'm talking to a plant... Wait, how can it here me.
He then bounded up, and landed upon one of it's leaves, and he repeated,
Who are you?
young-born fire-self
It reached out and pushed at the entity, pointing it.
energy-trail follow to entity-you
Ikola fluttered, pushing currents into the ocean.
I had meant to return to them, Not-Enemy Nos. Why don't we go there now?
Ikola traveled upwards as quickly as possible, secretly thrilled to be away from the dark-damp Ocean. As the god moved upwards into the light, its body shimmered with the God's pleasure, and waves of life coursed off of its filaments and into the water, converting into brilliantly colored fish of all shapes and sizes. As Ikola reached the surface, the god skimmed across it, and from its imprint into the waves, beings of similar shapes appeared and, startled at being alive, vanished into the depths. As Ikola traveled, the god began to flatten into a sheet, preparing to reform into a bird when it reached the land. As it converted itself, its inadvertent progeny also changed, growing flat and traveling away from their creation-spots on rippling 'wings' under the water.
Soon the land appeared and Ikola burst upwards in a final exultant push. All of a sudden around the god appeared sleek grey shapes that clattered out their own joy from long mouths filled with sharp teeth before falling sideways and back into the sea with a mighty splash. They soon arrived at where the Egg Races were milling about, still looking confused.
Ikola beamed.
There they are!
~Above With Proprietas~
Something approached! After the others had moved away without even blinking as Revillark had shook ominously at them, the exarch had felt a little dejected and impotent. But now, something new! The caged light bounced against the insides of the wooden bars and shook the entire structure as the being alighted on it.
But it was not an unhappy shake, but a shake of greetings. Revillark hoped that this was made clear somehow.
Asking it its name... was harder to answer. The Revillark shook uncertainly in reply.
1 PP: Nourish Ocean (Empower): Tropical fish fill the oceans... in the tropics, that is, under the band of stars.
1 PP: Spawn Beast (Generate): Seals and Sea Otters frolic in the oceans
1 PP: Spawn Beast (Generate): Manta Rays frolic in the oceans
1 PP: Spawn Beast (Generate): Dolphins frolic in the oceans. Lots of frolicing going on today.
Ikola
8/Life:4 Civilization:1 /1/0/0/1
A band of Mazunti stood at the threshold of the poison lands. These places had been long ignored by their people, but that was dangerous. That which wasn't understood couldn't be harnessed. This could not be allowed to continue.
Diligently, a base camp was established, and then the band of sea-dwellers marched into the corrupted forest, seeking its source. They did not return untouched.
~Mazunti Lands~
Life was easy, and so Mazunti numbers grew. However, the sandy beaches that they loved were shrinking by the encroachment of swamp. That was unacceptable. Irrigation was the answer. Canals, waterwheels, and damns stemmed the influx of water, stifling the expansion of swamps, and even reclaimed many. The new lands allowed them to expand, but that wasn't enough. Settlements were errected further up and further in, reaching towards the heart of the continent.
And on these same beaches that the Mazunti had claimed, they Qib-Atha. A few were captured and studied. What was unknown could be a threat.
~Qib-Atha Lands~
There was a crack that echoed in the evening air as Nameless snapped the neck of the hunter. The Qib-Atha slumped to the ground, lifeless. It was unfortunate, but necessary. It was expendable, and it had seen him. Those two factors did not promise a long life.
Nameless slipped away, his feet moving silently through the marsh. It was much like the stagnant shallows of a home he no longer loved. The skills remained, though.
There was noise in the village. Creatures preparing for the evening meal, undoubtedly. Nameless opened the bag at his side and removed a handful of pebbles. Prepared, he walked right into the center of it.
Qib stood suddenly, surprised at the appearance of an unknown creature. Nameless looked through the crowd for the largest one. There it was, with food halfway to its mouth, staring at him. He approached. A few of the creatures began to yell at him in a threatening manner. Nameless took a few stones, one for each, and severed connection the stones had to gravity. The connection he had formed with these would-be guards burned away as well.
They couldn't remember why they were so mad at this creature; there was something strange in the camp, they had to find it. They could no longer connect Nameless as that creature. Nameless released the stones, and they hung in the air.
"I'm afraid you have to die," he told it, though he was sure it didn't understand a word he said. Brutish savage.
Nameless drew a silver knife. The large qib realized the threat now. Nameless threw the blade and quickly burned away the qib's connection to himself. Another stone floated away, and with it went Nameless's own interest in the qib... and the qib's interest in Namelss. The disorientation was brief, but it was enough for the knife to plant itself in its chest. The Qib fell.
Screams welled up in the others. "I'm afraid you all have to die."
And they did.
Deep in Nameless's genetics, from a time when mazunti were still Shahuagin, chaos demanded it.
~With the Egg Races~
Nos followed Ikola, hurrying on hundreds of hands to keep up. "Oh excellent, excellent. Wonderful creatures, simply wonderful. Are they curious, hmm? Clever? Hmm? And what does their spirits look like?"
Nos took one and examined it's web in the spiritual realm. Yes, it had the imprint of Ikola on it. And, since Ikola was right here, Nos could use him as a template. He meddled with the creature, a human, and tried to make it closer to Ikola. However, he also mimicked that part of Ikola that had been damaged by Krulsk. He didn't realize his error.
Knowledge set the small creature down, then repeated the process with the other two species. If the things were clever, they'd figure out the uses of their new powers soon enough.
~Among the Bull-headed~
Pointy-Horned the Bellicose roared. The human hunters backed away. They'd already downed his friend, but they wouldn't take him, biggest of his tribe. There was a reason he was so large. He didn't kill his kind, he fought them until they yielded and gave up their light. It was a little spark of their life, they could live without it, but they were weaker, smaller, lazier without it. In turn, it invigorated Pointy-Horned The Bellicose. And, there were other advantages.
The Minotaur kneeled down and placed his hand on the axe his friend had used. "Fight," he commanded. Dozens sparks of light left him and entered into the weapon. It took almost all the sparks he had: the axe was to dissimilar to life to be commanded easily. But, it rose in the air, and hurled itself at the hunters. Pointy-Horned the Bellicose stood up and charged in the opposite direction. Spears pierced his flesh, but he still had many sparks. His wounds would heal quickly. Those he gave the hunters, though, would not. Mainly because he killed them. Behind him, the other hunters screamed as they tried to figure out how to kill an inanimate object. They didn't stand a chance.
After the last human was dead, Pointy-Horned the Bellicose went over to the axe. It was quivering, seeking out new life to fight. It sensed him and flew towards him. He ducked to the side and grabbed it's hilt. "Sleep." The sparks returned to him, and the axe dropped, inanimate again.
~Among the Winged Rats~
Moonwillowstarshinepattycake watched the Minotaur fight the humans. It was impressive. She'd like ending his life. The horns would have been delightful themselves. But maybe she could take his magic, too.
The creatures wounds healed quickly, once it's power returned to it. She waited. The healthier the victim, the sweeter the battle.
With a cry, Moonwillowstarshinepattycake darted from her hiding place. The minotaur looked in her direction, and big as he was, a look of revulsion crossed his face. She knew why. Her body wasn't exactly beautiful anymore, though it once had been. That was before she added the extra arm, the dozen extra wings, an extra head, and a toe. It was a good toe, she liked it. It was good for stubbing.
Almost every inch of her body had open sores, oozing pus. She felt a proper rattle in her chest. Blood in the lungs, probably. That would be good.
The Minotaur swung its axe at her. And she stopped it with two of her hands. It was easy.
She coughed.
Well, it had been hard, gathering so much corruption into her own body, but that didn't count.
The Minotaur breathed in.
The infection spread quickly. Moonwillowstarshinepattycake wasn't sure what allowed her body to continue living with such a disease inside of her, but it had taken years to develop to this level. The Minotaur had no such training. But he was a lively one. Sickness alone might not stop it. Yes... even now, she could see that its immune system was overcoming. Delightful. This might be a proper battle.
God Block
2PP Guide (general): The Mazunti expand away from the sandy coast and towards the center of the peninsula, and up into the main part of the continent itself
1Pp Nourish (general): The Mazunti stop the expansion of the swamplands at the sandy-acidic coast
1PP Harm (general): The Qib find themselves being plagues by a crazy-ass Mazunti assassin using Lokesanna magic
3x2PP Guide (2Knowledge, 2 magic, 1 impose, 1 general): Nos teaches the Egg Races Imbuement and Desor, which are Ikola and Krulsk based magic.
Imbuement works by a user gathering sparks of life from other sentient creatures. These must be willingly given, and each creature can only give one. The creature can live without the spark, but they'll be less vigorous without it. The receiver is more vigorous just holding the extra sparks inside of them. However, they can imbue the sparks in objects and give them simple commands (such as "fight" or "shut"). The sparks can be taken back out of an object only by the original user. The more organic and more person like an object is, the easier it is to give commands. Thus, wood is easier to animate than metal, and a doll in the shape of a person is easier to animate than a brick.
Desor works by the user corrupting their body. This can be done by wounding themselves, making themselves sick, or going crazy. However, it must be accompanied by a similar corruption of someone else. An eye for an eye, as it were. In return for this corruption, the user gains power. Sacrifice an eye, and the remaining eye will see far better. Have several diseases, and you'll be able to shrug off series injuries. Etc. This happens to encourage these magic users to be walking cesspools.
2 general, 0 knowledge, 2 travel, 0 magic, 0 impose, 3 generate remaining
2PP Guide (general): The Mazunti expand away from the sandy coast and towards the center of the peninsula, and up into the main part of the continent itself
1Pp Nourish (general): The Mazunti stop the expansion of the swamplands at the sandy-acidic coast
1PP Harm (general): The Qib find themselves being plagues by a crazy-ass Mazunti assassin using Lokesanna magic
3x2PP Guide (2Knowledge, 2 magic, 1 impose, 1 general): Nos teaches the Egg Races Imbuement and Desor, which are Ikola and Krulsk based magic.
Imbuement works by a user gathering sparks of life from other sentient creatures. These must be willingly given, and each creature can only give one. The creature can live without the spark, but they'll be less vigorous without it. The receiver is more vigorous just holding the extra sparks inside of them. However, they can imbue the sparks in objects and give them simple commands (such as "fight" or "shut"). The sparks can be taken back out of an object only by the original user. The more organic and more person like an object is, the easier it is to give commands. Thus, wood is easier to animate than metal, and a doll in the shape of a person is easier to animate than a brick.
Desor works by the user corrupting their body. This can be done by wounding themselves, making themselves sick, or going crazy. However, it must be accompanied by a similar corruption of someone else. An eye for an eye, as it were. In return for this corruption, the user gains power. Sacrifice an eye, and the remaining eye will see far better. Have several diseases, and you'll be able to shrug off series injuries. Etc. This happens to encourage these magic users to be walking cesspools.
2 general, 0 knowledge, 2 travel, 0 magic, 0 impose, 3 generate remaining
"You have something of the essence of time about you" he said, "And yet your true nature is more one of... heat? No, something more. Something more alive than heat. What did you call yourself? Fire?"
fire
The term was filling him, adding itself to him, making him feel...complete. Like there was a part of him that was missing, and now it was whole.
"Fire."
As it felt itself complete, parts fell into place, and he suddenly knew that with this knowledge of both who and what he was, he now was what he was supposed to be. A name, that was the key that had unlocked his true self.
"I am the fire and the fire is me."
He shook himself, and moved back, to a much more respectful range to the being in front of him. His...parent? Maybe. It's essence had been there when he had been born, and so it seemed to be a reasonable assumption.
"Yes, that is who I am. Excuse my roughness, but I wasn't complete. Thank you for helping me do that. May I enquire as to your identity? I suspect you may have been responsible for my existence being started."
"I sought to place my divine energy into the cycles of the world - see, how the wind blows and the clouds form, only to rain again? It seems that somehow, you were born." Omus looked at the entity before him. He sensed that it was the essence of change, consuming things, turning them from one form to another. That made sense to him. However, he sensed more. This entity seemed... hungry. Unpredictable. "I had not expected you to be quite like this."
"I'm not sure. This rain you made, it seems antithetical to my essence. While I admit that I do not yet know if such a thing would be possible anyway, I do not think I would be born from such an action. Perhaps you did something else that caused my birth? It was in a burned, barren land, over in that direction." He sent a pulse in the direction he had come from, to the best of his knowledge. After all, it's not like he had exactly been exact getting here. "There was none of this rain there."
~~In the Ocean~~
Umi eagerly absorbed Nos’ stories. Perhaps they would come in handy later. Perhaps not. They were quite interesting either way. He gurgled when Ikola and the hundred handed one left, but with what emotion it was hard to tell. He considered following them for a moment, then decided not to. He had another plan forming in his head. While he began work on that, roughly a third of the sea god’s attention returned to the priest he had imbued with energy.
~~In Ika’s Capital~~
It had been a week since Gilkt began his daily excursions into the city. Although there hadn’t been any more signs of uprising, he could feel the tension whenever he left the Central Shrine. Kalmar were cold and callous to any who were seen practicing cyromancy or unami. It was a dangerous time.
Today Gilkt was wandering one of the markets. Every booth seemed to be filled with exotic baubles and ice sculptures. The only booths really getting any attention were those with large signs claiming that cyromancers had not been involved in making their sculptures. But there was one such booth that was empty anyways. Gilkt drifted over to it.
There was an old female Kalmar behind the booth. Gilkt asked her why the booth wasn’t attracting, and she explained to him that the many believed her to be mad. It seemed so, all she had on display where spheres of ice in different sizes and shapes. There were rather exorbitantly priced too.
Gilkt examined the balls of ice. There was one that seemed… off. There was a sort of power radiating from it, the same as the feeling he’d felt growing inside of him the past few days. Gilkt asked the woman about it. She told him it was called the “Orb of Everlasting Ice.” It was supposedly a powerful artifact made by Umi himself when cyromancy first came into being. Gilkt didn’t believe a word of it, but asked the price anyways. He got it for free because the woman “liked his face.”
The second the high priest picked up the orb, he felt a rush of power. His felt like his cyromancy had improved somehow. The only reasonable solution would be to take this home and meditate on it.
Actions
Technically did this three posts ago, but I forgot to write it up…
2 PP Beget – The current high priest of Ika, the Kalmar nation, becomes a Chosen of Umi. His name is Gilkt.
Enemy-Not-Friend-Not-Enemy-Friend Nos! What have you done? Put it back! Why do they fight amongst one another? Why did you allow the little one to learn such horrid things? That is the Enemy's way! Not the way of Ikola. You must fix this!
Ikola breathed into the space before the two Gods, and like a fine mist, it settled on the fighting races below, where Spark-casters and Desor-mages traded blow for blow, the corruption of Krulsk's magics fighting with the life-boosting powers of Ikola.
And as the mist fell, the fighting stopped, and, as if dreaming, the races before the Gods began to slowly shuffle into distinct groups as Ikola's mist was breathed into them and, in an instant, determined the makeup of their psyche. Most of those below were hugely xenophobic, Ikola realized with great sadness, and large portions of each race traveled away from the Egg-Plain in opposite directions.
Not far to the east was a deep forest. It was here that the Pixies found themselves slowly waking up as if from a dream, with an imperative laced deep within their minds: Build.
And so Hocix was created, its homes hidden in the trees of the forest, with roads tunneling through the hollowed-out branches of the trees themselves, only resorting to camoflagued bridges when necessary to leap from tree to tree. At several large trees, concealed ramps lit by translucent, paper-thin bark circled just within the boundaries of the trunk, stretching from the upper branches of the trees to the earth to allow trade and hunting on the surface. Forges belched into operation, their smoke cunningly routed down specially designed passages across multiple trees linked with hollowed-out fabricated pipes until released at some distance from the city of Hocix itself.
Likewise, the Minotaurs headed north until they found caves, and, waking as if from slumber, they were commanded to Build.
To those who were not perceptive, the city of Ajam appeared to be nothing more than a small village of huts surrounding several mines that tunneled into the hillside, which was the front the Minotaurs wished to present to the world. To the perceptive eye, however, it soon became apparent that while all three tunnels were used extensively, only one actually appeared to produce any ore. The others had minotaurs entering and exiting at strange intervals... heading into the mines at dusk and leaving at dawn.
In truth, Ajam extended both deep into and under the hill, tall laberinthine halls carved into the stone wide enough for two carts to pass side by side and walls carved with reliefs of minotaurs in combat. An underground river was tapped to provide a shallow lake beneath the surface, and fortifications were prepared in the tunnel entrances.
Heading west, but not quite to the Mirage Valley, the Humans eventually emerged from their daze and built as well, but unlike their larger and smaller egg-kin, the city of Iashe did not hide. A strong stone wall ringed by a moat filled with sharpened stakes was hastily erected, even before anything but crude, rudimentary shelters could be constructed. So much effort went into the wall that, having exausted the resources in the immediate area, the Humans retreated within their perfect walls to huddle in their crude huts and scavange what food they could fine.
But, as it turned out, a small group of Egg-Kin were found worthy, and they had not been sent away. Their souls were filled with the capacity to cooperate, to work together to solve their problems. And they built as well. Soon, a strange sort of city began to emerge, a mix between Minotaur stonework that extened as far below the ground as it did above, wooden homes of the humans, smoke puffing from their chimneys, and the homes of the Pixies, who often as not would appropriate the roof of one of the Minotaur or Human dwellings to construct a small branch-home of their own.
Ikola looked down at Udoma, the quaint village of those that could work together, and hoped silently that their philosphy would spread to their less cooporative Kin.
8 PP (1 civ, 7 generic) Guide Populace: Form the following communities:
Most of the Pixies move East and founds the city-state of Hocix, concealed within the trees of a forest.
Most of the Minotaurs move north and founds the city-state of Ajam, concealed in the 'mines' of a 'small village'
Most of the Humans head south and found the city-state of Iashe, a nation of hut-dwellers protected by a spectacular wall and stake-filled moat.
The remaining minority of Pixies, Minotaurs and Humans band together and form Udoma, a peaceful village of harmony.
1/Life:4 Civilization:0 /1/0/0/1
OoC
Would be happy to keep this going a bit but since I may get little chance to post again before I'm away, it seems sensible to let Maiten go off alone.
Q'lthali looked out on his people. They were worried. The Mazunti had slain many of the Qib-Ugga, but the Qib-Atha had proved more devious, ensnaring and poisoning many of the invaders. In the sea and the shallows, these enemies were powerful, but they could not jump, or climb, or run like the Qib could. It was not truly this which had worried his people. It was the nearby village they had found slaughtered. They had found only the tracks of one or two Mazunti. Something was wrong.
Suddenly, Q'lthali heard a bellow from one of the Qib. They were under attack! And yet... he could see nothing out of the ordinary. There were the Qib going about there business, there was a some kind of creature throwing sharp things, there was blood where one of the Qib lay dying on the ground. And yet, there was no sign... wait! Q'lthali remembered that creature, remembered being ready to fight it, and then, somehow, he had lost interest. His understanding of the creature had been burned away. And yet, he knew that a moment ago he had known it.
Q'lthali stepped through the chaos towards the creature. He could see the void within it, consuming. Once, this creature had been whole, but soon there would be nothing left but an empty shell. With each Qib it killed, it killed a little of itself. That did not mean, however, that it did not remember.
Q'lthali reached out a webbed hand towards the Mazunti as it turned to regard him. Q'lthali was not sure why it had not tried to kill him yet, but it seemed that time itself had slowed down. Without haste, he touched the creature, and suddenly, it remembered. It remembered what it had once been, and the horror of its actions dawned upon it. But Q'lthali was not finished. Not really understanding what he did, he pushed further, compelling not the creature's mind but its body to remember from whence it had came. Before this, it had been a creature of chaos, a reaver of the sea. Yet even before that, it had been something else, something to which the world above the waves was foreign. Before that, it had been fish.
Q'lthali stepped back as the creature fell to the ground, gasping for air.
"We are the Qib!" Q'lthali announced to the witnesses around him. "We are of both land and sea. We are of the forests and the swamps. We will drive these invaders back to whence they came!"
Actions and PP
2PP - Guide
The Qib-Atha learn the art of Remembrancy, which allows them to summon up the essence of a thing's past.
1PP - Harm
The Qib ambush, trap and poison many of the Mazunti. The mysterious assassin is devolved by the powers of Remembrancy.
2PP - Guide
The Qib-Atha learn the art of Remembrancy, which allows them to summon up the essence of a thing's past.
1PP - Harm
The Qib ambush, trap and poison many of the Mazunti. The mysterious assassin is devolved by the powers of Remembrancy.
Watching and considering, he slipped away again.
As Order stirred and shifted, a seed of Life, long since left by Ikola at the formation of the Moons themselves, germinated, digging roots into the dusty ground and growing at tremendous speeds, soon overshadowing the god sleeping beneath its forming canopy. The tree was formed of three main trunks, which burst from the earth separately only to wind their way around one another in a tight spiral, from which flashes of light appeared to stream from the cracks between the growing trunks. Branches burst from the tree as it grew, and long, flat leaves provided shade from the burning stars.
The tree seemed to pulse as it grew, and each pulse sent life coursing over the surface of the moon, a wave of pale blue grasses that burst to life, dug into the rock, and died just as quickly as it found no soil for purchase. But another wave came and broke down the rock further, and then another and another until the grass was firmly rooted in a thin but present layer of soil. A final pulse and thousands of small grey lizards scittered from the tree, dissapearing into the tall grasses.
"Oh, Did I disturb you?" A flute-like voice filled the thin air as Order stirred once again. "My apologies. But I have tasks to fulfil."
As the tree spoke, a set of huge seedpods grew and dropped to the moon's surface, splitting open in a sappy explosion and revealing grey and blue-skinned mammals with coarse, brown fur covering their bodies. From their backs stickily unfurled long wings, which they set about cleaning with long tounges that lanced out from long beaks rimmed with feathers.
2 PP (Life) Beget Exarch: Kandra: A large tree-like being on the surface of the moon, whose duty is to cover the moons with some semblance of life
2 PP (2 life): Nourish Moon: The moon upon which Order is stirring is covered with pale blue grasses, small grey-skinned lizards, and sports a thin but breathable atmosphere.
2 PP Spawn Beast: Griffins.
0/Life:0 Civilization:0 /0/0/0/1
Story: Tomorrow.
Stats (Fred, you're killing me with your lack of generates!) :P
Level/Domain(s)/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 5/Life:3 Civilization :2 /2/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /2/0/0/1
Death. 5/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 Metal:1/0/1/2/0
Umi. 3/Ocean:2 Ice:1/1/0/0/0
Nos. 4/Knowledge:1 Travel:1 Magic:1/1/2/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 4/Time:2 Evolution:1 Chromomancy:1 /0/1/1/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 3/Protection:1 NEW DOMAIN/2/0/0/0
Loki: 3/Chaos:2 Storm:1/1/0/1/0
Order: 3/Order:1 Moon:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/10
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Zeym:2/Dream:1/0/0/0/0
Maiten:2/Fire:1/0/0/0/0
Altuna'Rhai:2/Storm:1/0/0/0/0
OoC
Huh, I thought I had Generated something...
OK, 1 Time carried over, I think?
OK, 1 Time carried over, I think?
"Hmm," Nos said. He turned two of his heads, in opposite directions, as he considered the mortals. "I am not sure what happened. Magic is a simple things, really. It's the raw power of creation being filtered through a mortal form. All I do to give it to mortals is to just increase the spiritual similarity between them and a god. In this case, you. They then gain access to a small amount of that god's power. They SHOULD just be little mini yous... well, far more indepent, and less powerful. But this..."
The god shook his heads, "I don't know. I'll confess, I haven't done a thorough study of spiritwebs. You were right here, so I based the change on you. If they're somehow tapping into Krulsk's power, it is because there's something of Krulsk about you, I'd wager. I think only you can say what went wrong."
~Hocix~
Sparkcasters were valued in public pixie society. Many were petty merchants, going about their people, buying up the spark each had. Then, they'd turn around and sell those sparks to the caster who bid the highest. A few casters started to rise in power, but their society acted quickly to prevent them from becoming tyrants. They were put to work for the good of the community, and tradition eventually bowed them to civilization. They imbued self-moving bridges and elevators, created self-delivering pouches to fascilitate communications. These were rare, as was necessary due to the number of sparks such wonders took, but they made life in the city worth living.
Unfortunately, every place has a dark underside. Desor-dealers stalked the down and out. Those who had already had their sparks taken were prime targets. The dealers didn't wish to make a public show of their power, but Pixie fashion allowed them to hide their extra wings and limbs under their clothes. They had to prevent themselves from appearing too sick, but their order grew.
~Ajam~
As the Pixies, the Minotaur's put their magic to use. Sparkcasters at first fought among themselves, but soon a hirearchy developed. The weaker casters became tax collectors. Each year they had to deliver a certain number of sparks to their superiors, and so they went about the populace under them, buying bullying and threatening the common folk to give up their sparks. These they passed on, while keeping as many as they could for themselves. Over the years, as the system stabilized, several taxcollectors had their own collections taken from them, as an exhausted populace didn't allow them to gather enough.
The strongest sparkcasters saw it was against their best interest to wage war against each other. Too much power was involved, and it would be unfortunate for such immense pools of sparks were to die in battle, before the wealth could be extracted. A council of ten, comprised of the most powerful minotaurs, ruled their land. As generations progressed, each one became powerful enough to be an army in themselves.
Under them, in the forgotten and blocked off portions of their mighty city, the dealers captured those who strayed too far. If only one of the Bright ones would come down that far...
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It was really only here, among the wall-encased humans, the the dealers gained the upper hand. The threat of disease was often enough to keep the others in line. They knew that sparkcasters were their primary threat, and so those who practiced the art, or gathered their resources, publically were tracked down and eliminated. A few, hording mere handfuls of sparks, managed to go unnoticed.
~Mazunti Lands~
The Qib attacks on Mazunti workers was surprising, mainly because these savages were even smart enough to know HOW to kill. However, another part of it was that the Mazunti had never shown any signs of hostility towards them. Well, not that hostile, at least. Capturing and studying a few Qib could be taken as offensive, but the subjects had been treated as well as could be hoped for in such a situation.
It was unfortunately, but the attacks could not be tolerated. Mazunti researchers began to work on new means of countering outside threats. Their best product, however, came in the form of old products. Land-forging was far superior to what they had been able to manage under the sea, and their silver weapons benefited from it. With a little skill, minerals taken from the acid mountains, the sacred metal fish of the seamounts, and some enchantment, they managed to craft weapons, armor, and other artifacts that never dulled, never tarnished, and were of exceedingly fine detail.
The next time the Qib decided to cause offense, they wouldn't be pleased with the outcome.
~Qib~
Nameless remembered. Truthfully, he had never really forgotten. He just simply didn't care. That was the heart of Lokasanna. Chaos, the uncaring turn of happenstance.
Not caring wasn't enough. Namless lay on the ground, gasping, his body thinking it needed water to breath, not air. But the Qib's power had awakened old memories, racial memories, things that were long past and shouldn't be again. The branches of Lokasanna hadn't always been separated as they now were. And they weren't separated anymore.
Nameless put his hands on his chest burned away his hatred of this new Qib. His need for air was separated from the order of time. His body begged, screamed, for water to breath, but it didn't need it, not until the wheel of time broke and creation unraveled. Or, at least, until the power of his magic ran out.
Nameless stood. He wanted revenge, he needed revenge, but his own magic made it impossible for him to care who he directed that revenge at. He stretched out his hand towards a nearby Qib, burned his connection to his mother, and broke the order of space. His hand occupied the same location as the Qib's chest. He closed his figured arround its heart and waited. The other creatures tried to attack him, but each passed through his body. Nameless had never liked his mother, so it was a weak connection. It failed, and Nameless jerked his hand out from the creature. He screamed as part of himself was left behind, inside of it. In exchange, however, he had hunks of heart-flesh grasped in what remained of his hand.
Revenge.
Nameless tore through the Qib, burning himself away. At the expense of his first friendship he sent one Qib flying countless feet up into the air, where it hung until the power gave out and gravity reasserted itself. At the expense of his first kiss, he dissolved another Qib into a mass of chaotic flesh and organs and bone. His wife, his son, and two more Qib died. Again, and again, until at last, there was nothing else, yet Nameless continued. What he once was vanished, and a voidling was left in his place.
The mindless creature cried at the heavens, and began laying into those around it. A Qib fell, and it too became a Voidling.
God Block
3x1PP Guide: Egg races (2 impose+1 magic)- their magic influences how the various egg races populate themselves. Pixie's use their magic to create a sort of magic-punk settlement, minotaurs use it to enforce a rigid government system, and humans are dominated by petty desor-tyrants. Each society had a hidden element of the opposite magic system.
2PP Guide: Silverworking (1 knowledge+1 general). Mazunti use their magic and the benefit of above-ground environments for forging to make exceptionally potent silver weapons (and other silver items). Since they also control a potent source of silver (the metal fish of the seamounts), this should give them a synergy bonus.
1 PP Harm (1 general): While Nameless is undone, he turns into a Voidling at his death and turns a few others before he himself dies. The voidlings further damage the Qib settlements.
4 gen, 0 knowledge, 3 travel, 0 magic, 0 impose, 4 generate remaining
And no, Toph, I haven't been forgetting or ignoring those generate PP. ;)
3x1PP Guide: Egg races (2 impose+1 magic)- their magic influences how the various egg races populate themselves. Pixie's use their magic to create a sort of magic-punk settlement, minotaurs use it to enforce a rigid government system, and humans are dominated by petty desor-tyrants. Each society had a hidden element of the opposite magic system.
2PP Guide: Silverworking (1 knowledge+1 general). Mazunti use their magic and the benefit of above-ground environments for forging to make exceptionally potent silver weapons (and other silver items). Since they also control a potent source of silver (the metal fish of the seamounts), this should give them a synergy bonus.
1 PP Harm (1 general): While Nameless is undone, he turns into a Voidling at his death and turns a few others before he himself dies. The voidlings further damage the Qib settlements.
4 gen, 0 knowledge, 3 travel, 0 magic, 0 impose, 4 generate remaining
And no, Toph, I haven't been forgetting or ignoring those generate PP. ;)
I would say this is the culprit. I remain scarred by my Enemy's last assault.
An edge entered the God's tone.
Nos! Am I infected with Corruption? Will it spread? Can you remove it? Can anyone remove it! Get it OUT!
[Crack!]
"Sava--- Hunahgraeinia therasino... tummeih...?"
[Crack!]
"INeedToStopThisNow! HelpMe! ICan't----"
[Crack!]
"OOOooooooooraaaahhhhyoooo! Brbrbrbrbrrbrbr! Yerrrrrrr...!"
[Crack!]
"Wha wha--- whoa...! Stop, stop!" As if the currents had heard his command, the clouds ceased swirling and chucking blots of lighting at him. He cocked his head a couple times. "Wow... that was certainly a thrill... excuse myself if I spooked either of you." He dusted himself off and assumed a naturally calm position before the two-- one whom introduced itself as Omus, and the other as Fire.
"I don't think I've ever fully introduced myself-- I am Altuna'Rhai. You may refer to me as Altuna in short." He looked over to the fiery figure. "As long as these clouds don't put me through that struggle again, I'll make sure to move them for you... err... Fire-born."
One morning, old man Martin sipped pensively at his latest solution of Goblin Ear and Honeyweed. In later years he would wonder if the tea was of his making, or if it was the other way around. Regardless, he found that with every sip a warmth filled his chest. Around a third of the way through the bowl, he noticed the sun had set. How odd thought Ryndell I only woke an hour ago. Perhaps I slept in.
Between sips, Ryndell started to set a fire to ward of the chill, but no matter how often the tinder took and the branches crackled with rosy cheer, the fire was ashes by the time he reached his seat. How strange thought Ryndell there must be some draft that snuffs out the fire when I turn my back.
The tea did a wonderful job of warming his old bones, and since he had a third of a bowl left, he decided to forgo the fire entirely and set another batch of the weird brew. He found his shelves bare though. The jars and satchels full of herbs and roots held only dust and cobwebs. Thief! he cried to the cosmos Vandal! Who stole my herbs?
In a fury he downed the last of the mystery tea and ran out the door. The dregs caught in Ryndell's throat so that he lurched past the exit coughing. The warmth in his chest spiked, and a blinding heat seared poor Ryndell's mind.
When he awoke he was covered in moss and clover. His house lay ruined by years of neglect. He could not remember the names of his family or friends but knew exactly how long to steep every plant in sight to release its inner properties. Ryndell scratched his chin a moment, pondering what to do next. Thirsty he decided I think I could go for a drink.
The form grew cloudy wings, and its eyes flared with a ferocious red hue. The creature coiled itself into a sort of S-shape and let loose a roar of a hundred thunder strikes. "Ah, a serpent of the clouds. How delightful." Before long, the serpent whirled itself back into the cloud and began to darken the could itself. Altuna could only speculate at the serpent's actions at the time being. "I do hope that this 'thing' will be willing to heed our words. Would you to test that theory with me?" He looked over towards Maiten. "Seems as though or friend, Omus, has other things to attend to and I am highly doubtful that I'd like to do this on my own."
~~Amongst the Clouds~~
I AM FREE...
The dragon called out, bellowing a roar that could be heard across the peninsula. It spread its wings and procceeded to dive through the clouds and use them as its habitat and as a fuel for its actions. The beast swirled along the sky and approached the forests next to what appeared to be a fairly desolate valley. Upon the being's command, the clouds darmeked around it as it prepared to unleash its full fury upon the lands below, happilly unaware of its pursuers that may soon follow its tracks.
OOC
Yep, there is a fairly large, dark stormcloud heading towards the Mirage Valley
Kandra let out a sigh that made her leaves rustle.
"Are you in charge of these moons, then? Perhaps we can work together. What attributes are required?"
~Hocix and The Clouds~
Clen dodged out of the way of another lightning bolt as it arced its way down from the sky towards the forest below, breaking a tree in half with a loud roar of rending wood and spent energy which lofted flaming brands through the woods. Clen knew that his friends were down there trying to fight the fires as much as possible, expending untold numbers of Sparks in the process to attempt to stop the flames from approaching the city itself. They had not believed him when he said he had seen a shape in the clouds, but Clen was never one to take other's opinions and warnings very seriously.
As he grew closer, he felt vindicated as he saw golden scales through the stormclouds. He had been right! He came up before the great golden dragon and shouted.
"STOP!"
~~In Ika’s Capital~~
Gilkt settled down with the icy orb, clutching it between his two longest tentacles. Perhaps there was something about it that could help him. Perhaps not. Umi’s priests were trained to think in this way. Gilkt closed his eyes and began to gurgle mystical words of power, praying for his god’s help. They weren’t real words of power, of course, and the magic would’ve worked just as well without them, but the priests of Ika had yet to realize that.
The kalmar felt something tugging at his consciousness. Umi? Maybe. Either way, it had instructions for him. Or rather, a vague feeling that there was a place he should go, somewhere to the west. He would gather some followers and set out immediately.
~~In The Ocean~~
Umi gurgled with delight. How wonderful. The sea god had come up with a way to accomplish fix the unrest in Ika, but simply handing it over made it too easy for them. No, he had instead decided to send some brave Kalmar, one of them perhaps the most powerful Kalmar to date, out towards Sahuagin territory. There was fun to be had, and perhaps the two races would form an alliance. Perhaps not. In time, it would all become clear.
Now Umi had another plan to put into motion. Actually, two. First he would implant suggestions into the minds of the southernmost Kalmar. They would go and say hello to the turtle people descended from the Sahuagin. Trade routes would be established, life would improve for both races. The Kalmar did as Umi wished; it was actually a rather painless affair. Hostilities almost erupted when first contact was made, but after that it was smooth sailing.
But that was a just a distraction compared to the scope of what Umi tried next. He began to channel raw power into the ocean, essentially splitting his soul in half and pumping half of it into the watery expanse. The more energy his physical body gave up, the more he began to feel the movement of the currents and the gentle fluctuations of the tides. It was exhilarating to say the least, especially since he was still connected to his body. The tentacle one began to narrow the connection, eventually winding up with nothing more than a vague telepathic link. Umi and sea did not share thoughts inherently, but they could communicate with each other over any distance. That made things a lot easier to handle than running two bodies at once. The now split ocean god decided to call his sea based consciousness Amnis, rather than calling both forms of him Umi, for simplicity’s sake.
~~The Ocean~~
Amnis stretched. His first order of business in this new body would be to figure out exactly how it worked. And to make tentacles. It was weird not having tentacles. He pushed out against the land surrounding him, and it budged. That was interesting. He could flood the beaches with relative ease, although he did feel strangely... drained, now. He narrowed his focus, instead of pushing against the entire shoreline, just push forward at the lowest points. That should be easier, right?
It was quite a bit easier. So easy in fact, that Amnis managed to create several “tentacles” of water that stretched for miles. This pleased him greatly. He went gurgle with delight, only to realize that he had no mouth. Oh well, that could probably be fixed at a later date.
Interestingly enough, the water in these tentacles didn’t seem to have as many tiny rocks dissolved in it. As Amnis watched, a squirrel wandered up and took a drink. So the water was also fit for the land creatures, interesting…
Actions
1 PP Guide (1 PP General)– A small group of Kalmar head west, towards the Sahuagin.
2 PP Nourish (2 PP General)– The Kalmar begin trading with the Mazunti, gaining indirect access to some of their resources, such as the Silverfish.
2 PP Guide + 2 PP Nourish (4 PP General)– The Mazunti begin trading with the Kalmar, who teach them advanced farming techniques. In addition, the Mazunti gain indirect access to some of the Kalmar’s resources, such as their vast fields of shellfish.
2 PP Beget (2 PP Ocean)– Umi channels a part of his consciousness into the ocean, creating a second Umi called Amnis, whose body is the sea itself.
3 PP Command (3 PP Ocean)– Amnis expands the ocean, pushing the shore back by 10 miles or so.
3 PP Command (3 PP General)– Amnis creates several rivers criss-crossing the continent, all of these connect to the ocean. In addition, the water from these rivers is devoid of salt, making it fit for consumption by most races.
2 PP Craft (2 PP General)– The idea of water in general is now a serious concept, seeing as there is now a notable amount of water on the planet that isn’t ocean.
Ryndell saw an immense thunderhead building in the distance. He frowned as he realized that he could see each individual raindrop forming within the roiling winds. So much detail... and a monster unlike any he had ever seen before! Surely the gods were displeased.
Whoever they were... In truth, he remembered nothing of the gods that had gone before him. Altuna'Rhai, Zeym, Ikola and Nos... the names were but misty shades to his addled mind. He had given the gods no more than lip service in life. In the post-mortal existance he then experienced Ryndell Martin could offer no more than that.
How he wished for a cup of tea...
1PP Forge artifact Ambrosia Tea: An everflowing cup of bliss. It bears great healing properties and grants mortal lips an understanding of the little details that compose the whole.
and there it was! The Ambrosia Tea spontaeously appeared in Ryndell's hand, but in his surprise he dropped it. Tea gushed forth from the bowl and flooded the area around the confused young god. Soon he found himself standing upon the surface of a small pond. He reached below the surface and pulled the strange mug from the depths, but the damage was done.
1PP Nourish to create The Sweetwater Spring. An oasis in the Mirage Valley famed for its delicious waters. Rumored to have healing properties.
"It is your creation. I have no doubt that you could make it do what you wished, should you desire to do so."
Still, he was curious as to this creature. He had been created, and obviously he could create, but he wasn't sure how to do it, really. Still, no better way than to try, right?
He formed a smiliar shape out of his essence, creating a serpent like creature, before filling it with his energy, filling it up until it was bursting with heat. He then placed in it a spark of his own essence, before releasing the creature.
It immediately collapsed, unable to remain held together. The whole thing fell apart into much, much smaller pieces, which fell into smaller creatures, until the peices were able to hold themselves together and form their own units.
"Well. That was unexpected."
"Well, if you could please come up with some plans quickly, that would be ideal. I have but one task given me by my creator, and I can't hold off on that forever!"
He attempted to try his own hand in forming something that resembled the beings down below...
[Crack!]
His own energy backfired upon him, sending him back toward the clouds a fair distance away from the other godling. "Ow! That didn't go as I expected." He waved his arm around from the recoil of the blast. "I suppose I should probably think about what to do instead of going head-first. Ow..."
He fluttered back over towards Matien. "I'd have to admit. That hurt." He took his focus back over towards the dark cloud, which was approaching what looked to be a heavily forested plateau. "Okay, enough floating around. I'm not sure what this thing will do, but I wouldn't like it if it started hurting things!"
~~Hocix and The Clouds~~
The swirling serpentine halted its advance and the clouds around it dragged slowly in an arc-like fashion. A small portion of the cloud separated and fell upon the world as a drenching downpour that only lasted for about a minute or so. The dragon caught sight of a miniature figure bouncing around the treetops. The dragon examined the figure closely and, hearing its words, responded diligently. "WHAT DOES SOMEONE, LIKE YOU, WANT WITH ME?" The words of the serpentine assaulted the earth below, yet it could be clearly heard.
"You could think things through. Or you could just do them, which is much more fun! Like stopping your creature, so lets go do that!"
He launched himself off after the serpent, creating a small explosion of heat as he left.
"I want you to stop this storm! Its going to light our city on fire eventually!"
"I will attempt to do so."
VILLAGE? FIRE? The hulking dragon looked whichever way it could see. It spotted a row of rooflines just beyond the forest line.
Just before backing away from the figure, it sensed divine presences approaching. It rolled its body back into the clouds and proceeded to go in the opposite direction of the figure and the village.
~~Toward the Dark Cloud~~
"Hmm... I think it's coming right back toward us..." Altuna focused harder on the cloud's velocity and traced its path. "Make that coming right AT us!" He darted off around the cloud so as to avoid any perpetual impact with the beast within. The cloud extended a tendril of gray smog and wrapped around the godling. It brought Altuna closer to the face of the dark cloud and popping out before him was the head of the fervent serpent. Its malicious, red eyes beaded down on the godling ,as it opened its mouth to speak.
"WHO ARE YOU TO INTERRUPT WHAT IS MY DOMINION, THAT WHICH YOU CALL THUNDER?"
"Uhhh..." Altuna responded, half-dazed by the creature's booming voice. "I hate to break it to ya, big, ugly, scaly partner, but you're kinda causing a ruckus around here. I think both me and my friend here would appreciate if you could just tone it down a little...?"
"A LITTLE...? A LITTLE!!!"
The dark tendril spun the godling around and flung him clear out in the distance, making headway toward a bundle of white, harmless clods of dust. He stopped himself just before the clods and shook his head. He glared angrily at the shining spot in the clouds. "Oh, you wanna do this the hard way? We'll do this the HARD WAY!" He sprung himself forward at such velocity that a stream of mist whisked around his own body, creating a shockwave as he sped toward the golden monster. "TAKE THIS, YOU SORRY EXCUSE FOR A SERPENTINE!"
The rush of his body past the dark cloud erupted in a massive boom that yanked the serpent clear out of its sanctuary. The dragon unfurled its wings shortly after falling a fair distance and looked up toward the two hovering celestial bodies. It took notice toward the lightning-clod figure. "YOU MUST BE MY PROGENETOR."
"Indeed I am," Altuna drew a grin and held his hand toward the beast, "and as your progenetor, I shall command unto thee and thou shall listen to thy words once spoken!"
As he looks, he see many changes. Many new things, that should be seen with his own eyes. And just like that, he was back in his own. Taking a much smaller form for ease, Falrn took off and went looking to see what has happened since he has been asleep.
PP
2PP Craft domain: Dragonkind
I'm claiming dragonkind as my second domain finally.
I'm awake again!
I have a buttocks load to spend yet....
2PP Craft domain: Dragonkind
I'm claiming dragonkind as my second domain finally.
I'm awake again!
I have a buttocks load to spend yet....
The Age is coming to a close at the end of the week and we'll be moving into Age 2. Get any remaining large Spawns you wish to create finished, as the prices are going up!
MAP.
Maplib is down. Will update later today.
STORY.
Writing up now...
STATS.
Welcome back, Umi
I think you'll find your spate of PP-spending has paid off!Level/Domain(s)/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 5/Life:3 Civilization :2 /2/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /2/0/0/1
Death. 5/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 Metal:1/0/1/2/0
Umi. 4/Ocean:2 Ice:1,NEW DOMAIN/1/1/0/0
Nos. 4/Knowledge:1 Travel:1 Magic:1,NEW DOMAIN/1/2/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 4/Time:2 Evolution:1 Chromomancy:1 /1/1/1/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 3/Protection:1 DragonKind:1/2/0/0/0
Dagon: 3/Chaos:2 Storm:1/1/0/1/0
Order: 3/Order:1 Moon:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/10
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Zeym:2/Dream:1/0/0/0/0
Maiten:2/Fire:1/0/0/0/0
Altuna'Rhai:2/Storm:1/0/0/0/0
Ryndell: 1/Tea:1/0/0/0/0
The other thing to be birthed into this young yet budding world, appeared to be creatures that looked and acted just like his current smaller form. They are curious creatures, and seemingly intelligent. They look and act like very small dragons, yet at the same time they aren't. Not as long lived as their larger kin, nor as powerful they nonetheless are not defenseless either. They use their cunning to trick foes, and tend to play pranks on travelers. If raised from birth, or if one can prove themselves to one, they can make invaluable friends.
Falrn, in his haste to see what has changed since he had slept, didn't even notice the changes he himself was making to the world on his passing.....
PP
3PP Beget Legendary: Leviathan. While not quite an exarch in its own right, it is too powerful for a mear spawn action, which is why I described it as having some minor divinity. Without divine intervention, it can not be killed, only stopped and put to sleep for a span of time (i.e. like the tarrasque) I might come back and claim it as an exarch, but for now it is an extremely powerful legendary creature. (3 generic (1 from previous week))
3PP Spawn: Psuedodragons and Fairy dragons. (1dragonkind+2 generate)
3PP Beget Legendary: Leviathan. While not quite an exarch in its own right, it is too powerful for a mear spawn action, which is why I described it as having some minor divinity. Without divine intervention, it can not be killed, only stopped and put to sleep for a span of time (i.e. like the tarrasque) I might come back and claim it as an exarch, but for now it is an extremely powerful legendary creature. (3 generic (1 from previous week))
3PP Spawn: Psuedodragons and Fairy dragons. (1dragonkind+2 generate)
Dagon channels his will through the High Priest of the Sahuagin once again, using the zealot as a puppet to summon a half dozen monstrous creatures of pure elemental essence, the first of the Greater Storm Elementals. These newly formed creatures relied solely on primal instincts, being driven by hunger and an inborn chaotic nature backed by brute strength. To command these beasts, Dagon gifted the High Priest with the Tempest Circlet, a wrought iron crown crackling with sparks of electricity. Along with their predecessors, Dagon also creates numerous (and smaller) Lesser Storm Elementals, which he imbues with more cunning and predatory instincts.
~The Sahuagin and Locathah~
Dagon also spreads his influence to his children, strengthening them with eldritch energies of Chaos, and the fury of the Storm. He also manifests magically infused weaponry to aid in their upcoming war.
God Block
Dagon's PP Expenditure for the Storm Elementals: 3/3 Chaos: 2/2 Storm: 1/1, 1 G/ 1E
Dagon's PP Expenditure for his 'children': 3/3 Chaos: 2/2 Storm: 1/1, 1 G/ 1E
Dagon's PP Expenditure for the Storm Elementals: 3/3 Chaos: 2/2 Storm: 1/1, 1 G/ 1E
- 4 PP (2 Generic, 1 Chaos, 1 Storm) Spawn Greater Storm Elementals.
- 2 PP (1 Chaos, 1 Generic) Forge the Tempest Circlet artifact to control the Storm Elementals.
- 2 PP (1 Generate, 1 Empower) Spawn Lesser Storm Elementals
Dagon's PP Expenditure for his 'children': 3/3 Chaos: 2/2 Storm: 1/1, 1 G/ 1E
- 3 PP (1 Generic, 1 Chaos, 1 Storm) Nourish Sahuagin and Locathah to infuse them with small amounts of magical powers, and enhanced strength, endurance, etc through magical means.
- 1 PP (1 Empower) Blood Frenzy which causes the Sahuagin and Locathah to fly into a murderous rage when in combat where they can use andrenaline to shrug off minor injuries, and heal minor wounds by consuming fallen enemies, and kin.
- 4 PP (2 Generic, 1 Chaos, 1 Generate) Equip the Sahuagin and Locathah with magically enhanced weaponry.
The three headed god sat. He thought, he pondered, he deduced and induced and reduced. He fancied and daydreamed and analyzed and criticised. After what seemed like a divine month or more, he finally stood up on his many hands, looked at Ikola, and said, gravely, "I dunno."
"Marvelous, isn't it?! There's always something new to learn, yes? Yes! It looks like he left a bit of himself in you. I suppose you could just amputate that portion? Or maybe, you could give it away? Oh, I like that. I think I'll call it a curse. Probably can't just get rid of a curse, or else I wouldn't have called it a curse. Well, I would have, but that's besides the point. The point is, maybe you have to give it away to someone else for THEM to be cursed? Wonder if it has to be willing or unwilling. It might be magic, and magic's a tricky thing, you know. All magic comes with a price. You can't just create or destroy energy, nope, magic doesn't work that way. There are RULES, you see."
"I suppose I could try to take the curse. Never had a curse before, might be interesting. Always more to learn, yes? Yes."
God Block
3PP Command - Magic: Magic is defined as having a cost. This is a fundamental, unavoidable law of existance. Which means, I need to add costs to the magic systems that have been created without costs, yes? I'll discuss that with people in the OOC thread, however.
3PP Command - Magic: Magic is defined as having a cost. This is a fundamental, unavoidable law of existance. Which means, I need to add costs to the magic systems that have been created without costs, yes? I'll discuss that with people in the OOC thread, however.
Ikola grimaced and looked at its wing with the ragged black and purple scar running its length.
Wouldn't Amputating it leave me more damaged than before? I'm not sure I particularly like that option any more than having part of the Enemy living inside my person. But if you are willing to take it from me, to study the Enemy. Then.... Then, I would call you Friend and you would have my thanks.
Ikola examined the scar for a little longer, trying to determine the best way to 'give' it to Nos. Eventually, the god tenatively reached out towards the other with the damaged wing and WILLED it to GO!
Suddenly, it was as if Ikola could not control its arm, which transformed itself into three claws, the cursed portions of its body concentrated in the claws, which raked across Nos with vicious intent, leaving three paralell scars that pulsed softly with malevolent light. Even as Ikola gasped in shock, its wing reformed, broken tendrils reaching out and reconnecting at last with their shorn partners. And as each tendril connected, a wave of Life burst forth.
The First Tendril: Nearby, an Alda had recently taken root and begun to spread outwards. Now, it was speared by a beam of Life, and altered.
It grew!
The Alda suddenly found itself growing taller and taller until, not a small tree anymore, it towered over the rest of the forest, its trunk and branches breaking apart into gnarled arms and legs as a startled face appeared from a twisting of its upper branches. The Old Man of the Forest took a tenative step, then another, the residual Life within it creating dryads and satyrs in its wake as it moved deeper into the forest to contemplate what to do next.
The Second Tendril: Life streamed outwards and impacted a mountain to the north, and it was altered.
It Groaned with Life!
A large humanoid form ripped itself free of the side of the mountain, its joints popping and shedding large quantities of pulverized stone as it moved for the first time as eyes of sapphires and a mouth full of chalk teeth broke to the surface of the head with a shower of falling rock. The great legs shook, and The Old Man of the Mountain walked, the residual Life within it creating oreads and clay men as it went.
The Third and Final Tendril: Life poured into the river that flowed nearby and to the great ocean itself. There, it churned the waters.
And a Form Appeared!
A watery head capped with seafoam hair rose from the ocean depths, its body dissapearing into the darkness far below. Like an ocean storm, it roared its first cry, and floated away from the land. In its wake, the residual Life of its creation formed Naiads and Tritons, which capered along with the Old Man of the Sea as it moved to more secluded spots.
Ikola darted towards Nos.
Friend NOS! I apologize. I had no idea. How... how can I assist you?
1 PP (generic): Harm God: Ikola accidentally attacks Nos and transfers the Scar of Krulsk to him.
Note: All of these are taking the 1 PP spawn discount.
3 (Life + discount): Spawn Superior Beast: The Old Man of the Woods: A massive, sentient Tree (think giant Ent, really).
1 PP (Life): Spawn Beast: Dryads. Female Guardians of the Woods.
1 PP (Generic) Spawn Beast: Satyrs. Male Guardians of the Woods.
3 (Life + discount): Spawn Superior Beast: The Old Man of the Mountain: A massive stone golem, with gems for eyes.
1 PP (Generic): Spawn Beast: Oreads: Female Guardians of the Mountains.
1 PP (Generic): Spawn Beast: Clay Men: Male Guardians of the Mountains.
3 (Generate + discount): Spawn Superior Beast: The Old Man of the Sea: A sentient mass of water in humanoid form.
1 PP (Generic): Naiads: Female Guardians of the Oceans.
1 PP (Generic): Tritons: Male Guardians of the Oceans.
4/Life:0 Civilization :4 /0/0/2/1
"Ow," Nos said. "Now this, this is a hurt. Fascinating thing. Oh, and I think I can feel the curse. Yes? Yes."
"Really?" another of Nos head's said.
"Wait, that's different" the third responded.
Each head looked at the others for a moment, then they asked in unison, "What did you say?"
Again in unison they answered, "I don't really know."
"Am I sure?"
"Yes, now I should probably stop talking to myself."
"Well, okay, if I insist. But I'll be right here if I need me."
Nos looked at Ikola, then down at the scar on his chest. Three different hands poked it at once. "Ow."
He looked back up at Ikola. "Maybe? I think I am fine for now?"
I am glad you are not horribly wounded, Friend Nos. You have healed me, at least!
The bird-God showed off its healed wing, then paused as a message arrived from far away.
Friend Nos. Something amazing has occured! My Child on one of the moons has finally sprouted and has filled it with Life! Come and see, my friend!
Ikola sped upwards on newly-healed wings, pleased with the speed it had regained and soon arrived at the glen with the Exarch and Order.
Oh. Hello, Child Order. Ikola said.
Only when he had felt attachment and loss did Ryndell truly feel pain. As he thought on all the young man's visits, on the pretty wife whose health was so fleeting, and of the tyranny of time did Ryndell realize the source of pain lies in attachment.
Ryndell considered isolation, and detachment but realized that a life without pleasure, especially one as long as his seemed to be running, was not worth living. He resolved to find the answer.
Well, my seed had a very long germination time, Child Order. Perhaps you delayed too long in beginning? After all, I AM Life, and I cannot stand to have places such as this left barren when they could team with Things.
Ikola flapped to maintain its altitude as the Tree spoke.
"That is what I tried to say. I am willing to alter as need be, but Life had to come!"
Ikola nodded.
Exactly. Life does not wait for it to be convenient for you to begin. It happens, and no one may predict it.
But I agree. If you had other plans, we shall work to make those plans a reality. Tell me, Child Order. What did you intend?
"Little? You were complaining about a 'little' issue not a moment's stride before."
"BEFORE I..." The dragon coughed mid-sentence. It spoke without its thunderous voice. "Forgive me. I am terribly easy to irritate. I had not realized you were my progenetor before we came to arms."
"Well, I'm happy we've come to an understanding." Altuna turned and winked to Maiten. "I do believe I have some unfinished business around here..." Out in the far distance, a thunderous roar could be faintly heard. "And not a moment too soon! Gaitres," he ordered to the dragon, "I will command you to move the coulds and maintain their balance amongst the storms. I'm going to instigate the source of the noise in the horizon beyond."
"At your command." The dragon spiraled itself into a long line of lightning and proceeded to occupy the clouds once more-- this time, the dragon moved them higher up and expelled their fury less often.
He flew over towards Maiten and hovered himself on small patches of dust. "You seem like you're just dying of something to do, my friend. Would you like to come along for an adventure of a lifetime?" He tought about the last word, almost chuckling at its meaning. "An investigation, of sorts?"
PP
PP: 2/(3/0/1) carried over + 4/(2/1/1)/1/1/1 reset = 6 + 5 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy + 1 Impose + 1 Empower + 1 Generate
Ooh I'm going to have fun, but this can wait until tomorrow.
PP: 2/(3/0/1) carried over + 4/(2/1/1)/1/1/1 reset = 6 + 5 Time, 1 Evolution, 1 Chronomancy + 1 Impose + 1 Empower + 1 Generate
Ooh I'm going to have fun, but this can wait until tomorrow.
"When I decide what to do, all this will be scoured away, and the remains will provde the energy to fullfill that plan. Death leading into life."
I deny it. The god made a curt gesture of dismissal with one wing.
You claim nothing is eternal. Am I not eternal? Are you not eternal? Is that thing which watches us - Ikola waved at the strange sleeping thing in the distance - Not Eternal? When I emerged, I willed everything to be eternal, Child Order. The fact that the Enemy Death has conspired with Enemy Krulsk to corrupt the plan I had for the world does not mean that that corruption must be considered 'natural.' Death is an abomination, and I will find a way to heal the sickness at the core of existence eventually.
Ikola hit a stone nearby lightly with a few tendrils.
This is Not-Life.
the tendrils landed on one of the lizards.
This is Life. Death is a corruption of a system which could have perfection. Will have perfection. It is not, has never been and WILL never be my opposite. I tell you this. When you decide what you wish to be here, you will tell me, and then I will move these things to a place where they will be better appreciated.
Mechanics
1 PP + 1 PP (Moon domain) - Forge Artifact - Middle Moon (Malithil) comes into it's true purpose, enforcing the ordered cycle of life and death. This makes it an artifact seperate from the other two. This general effect serves several purposes. First and foremost, this places limitations on the abilities of mortals to return the dead to life. Essentially, deaths via age and natural diseases cannot be reversed. And most people cannot be raised in general, barring divine intervention. Secondly, this moons light is harmful to the undead. Normally, this is simply a great deal of discomfort, but when Malithil is full, undead exposed to it's light suffer damage each round. Finally, weapons forged of silver can be consecrated under the light this full moon, gaining the ability to cause great harm to the undead.
While Ryndell contemplated his next move, guilt and sorrow flowed through him. Could he have saved them? He was certain the tea had helped but it was not enough. He should have done more. Perhaps a stronger kind of drink?
Ryndell scooped some loam from beneath a shady tree. It smelled rich and full of life. After he was sure all the worms were removed, he poured ambrosia over the soil and breathed over it. The earthen aroma grew more potent. Then Ryndell thought of the concepts he harboured the most contempt for: Corruption, Time, and Death. He played with the defiant essenses and honed them into a substance just within the limits of mortal consumption.
Show
1 PP: Nourish Domain Related to create Bitterbean Brew. Think high fantasy's answer to coffee, but the effects (positive and negative) are off the charts. Barbarians will drink it to envigorate their spirits. Mages will use it to sharpen their intellect and lose themselves to their arts. Accountants will use it for their daily survival: Boredom is the cruelest killer.
Coffe-er Bitterbean Brew defies time, corruption, and death by heightening creature metabolism. Mechanically speaking, it gives a boost to Dex, Int and it grants a healing factor, dependant upon how strong the brew is. Side effects include dehydration, and a crash though.
1 PP: Nourish Domain Related to create Bitterbean Brew. Think high fantasy's answer to coffee, but the effects (positive and negative) are off the charts. Barbarians will drink it to envigorate their spirits. Mages will use it to sharpen their intellect and lose themselves to their arts. Accountants will use it for their daily survival: Boredom is the cruelest killer.
Coffe-er Bitterbean Brew defies time, corruption, and death by heightening creature metabolism. Mechanically speaking, it gives a boost to Dex, Int and it grants a healing factor, dependant upon how strong the brew is. Side effects include dehydration, and a crash though.
Is not starvation a form of death? My beings would not have known hunger, or pain. There would have been no Death, no need for it. I do not deny that foul Krulsk-spawned Death has wormed its way into this existence, but I reply to your declaration that it NEED NOT BE SO.
Ikola's filamentous form shimmered and pulsed with emotion as it spoke.
You view Life as inherently linked to Death because you have never observed it to be another way. You do not KNOW this to be a universal truth, you merely parrot the tired arguments of my Enemies, that Life requires Death. It IS NOT SO. I am Life, and I need none of what my Enemy provides. Is not Death Chaos? Is not Life the building up of a solid, lasting Order from the disparate elements of the world?
the God sighed, and let its wings fall.
Perhaps I am too harsh on you, Child. You are a product of this fallen world as much as the creatures which inhabit it. To you, who knew no different, Life and Death do seem linked. But will you at least entertain the possibility that, had things not progressed as they did, this link might not have existed?
The silverfish were a valueable resource to the Mazunti. Desperate to forge more of their spectacular new weapons, they mined the ocean depths for the creatures. When the Kalamar established trade with them, yet more were caught to satisfy the needs of another people. Soon, the fish grew scarce, and the Mazunti realised what they had done.
Actions
1 Time - Harm
Time takes its toll on the Silverfish, and overfishing causes the resource to diminish.
1 Time - Harm
Time takes its toll on the Silverfish, and overfishing causes the resource to diminish.
"As I see it, the worst that could happen had things not prgressed in this way, life would have no definition, no purpose. You would not exist. As a corallary, I would not exist. Nothing you or I have created would exist. Very likely, nothing would exist, and all would be a blank void of nothingness. At best, without a conflict to define and energize you, you would simply have fallen to sloth, and all you have created would still not exist."
"Do no despise that which you do not understand, that which opposes you. No, revel in it. Revel in the conflict it provides, the definition that comes from being able to point and say 'This is what I am, and that is what I am not.' Value this animosity as a source of initiative, and apply it to add ardor to all that you do, to excel in your creation of greater and more abundant life at every turn so that, even as your foe works to undo what you have wrought, to have it die as the cycle proceeds, he must acknowledge some bit of respect and awe at what you are capable of. Finally, when he has finished, and all is dust, strive once more. Do it again and again, until the end of eternity, improving your works and growing better each time."
Change. Flux. Very well. If you declare such things must exist, so be it. Let all Increase! More Life! more Not-Life! more Fecundity! More Growth! More of EVERYTHING. More!
A spasm washed over the God, and a small seed materialized before the two gods, floating in place for a moment before plummeting down to the surface. Ikola shook its wings out as the spasm passed.
Increase is Change, is it not? Why must it be that things decrease as well? Where is that rule written?
8 PP (3 life, 3 generate, 2 generic): Spawn (world-destroying) creature: The Evervine. Currently a seed, this plant, if it ever sprouts, may eventually bring about the end of the entire world. Imbued with all of Ikola's will that it should INCREASE, its vines would spread at a quick rate, covering and smothering out the entirety of the world as it wound its way across the planet. While it is possible that some sort of life could co-habitate with the vines, living in the branches as they grew ever more on top of one another, the world as it is known now would vanish.
4/Life:0 Civilization :8 (really need to use this...) /0/0/2/1
Ryndell: 2/Tea:1 Bliss:1/0/0/0/0
A thing without its opposite or its absence has no meaning Omus replied. Death is but a product of Time; for there to be no Death, there would have to be no Time, and if there were no Time, then there would be no Life.
You have much to learn... like your "enemies", you seek to impose your will on the world. Perhaps you are more like them than you realise? And yet, what you do not seem to comprehend is that the world has grown beyond any of your control - is that not the nature of life? You can no longer push on the world and expect it not to push back...
You do not listen. NONE of you listen. I do not deny that Life must have an Opposite. I never have. You all seem to think that this corrupted thing of Death *is* that opposite. This is what I deny. What is the opposite of life is that which is not alive, not that which destroys it. Death is an action, a verb. Life is a noun.
I take it from your words that you believe that we should all be free to do as we will, to mold the universe with no rules or laws or constraints? Would you allow your enemy to destroy you if that was their wish?
Actually, this brings up an important point, you who pronounce the NECESSITY of opposites.
What is the opposite of Time, Not-Friend Omus? If everything MUST have an opposite, surely you do as well.
Ooc Ryndell
Just fyi MatthewSwift, Falrn is about the size of a medium-sized dog but still looks everything like a dragon, only smaller.
Just fyi MatthewSwift, Falrn is about the size of a medium-sized dog but still looks everything like a dragon, only smaller.
Time is that which marks the passage of one thing to another. It is death, and birth. It is increase, and decrease. Time is the knife edge between the opposites, the line on which we all dance.
Should we be free to mold the world as we see? That is what you are all doing, is it not? But the world has its own laws, its own constraints. For every action there is a reaction, for every cause an effect. You create life. How can you not expect it to do what life will do, to interfere with other life, to make more of itself or to sow war and death? See now how the races of the world have changed. Did you plan for them to be like this? Did you expect this to happen?
You claim that all things must have opposites, but you make a special exception for your own domain of influence, that of Time. How very convenient, Not-Enemy Omus that it is you and you alone that may always be in the right because you have no opposite, but instead occupy a mystical 'middle-ground' between all other oppositions. This is a fundamental alteration of your earlier statement.
Ikola sighed, and felt as its wings began to dissolve into filaments.
I see this goes nowhere. You are as set in your ways, set in the corruption of this world as the rest of them. Thank you for an interesting conversation, Not-Friend Omus. I hope you think on my words. I will think on yours.
The wings finished dissolution, followed by body and head, and then the entire filamentous mass twisted in mid-air and vanished.
This other god was confused. She - if it could be called a she - was the source of the myriad swarming creatures on the planet below, yet she weilded her power like a child, not truly understanding the mysteries of the universe.
Omus was dismayed, but he saw that below, the world was already reacting to the actions of those above.
God Block
PP: 5 + 0/0/1 Domain + 1/0/1 plus 5 + 2/1/1 + 1/1/1 from reset.
2 PP - Guide
A small group of pixies find the Seed of Doom - sorry, "Evervine" - and, recognising its power (somehow) resolve to keep it safe.
PP remaining: 8 + 2/1/2 Domain + 2/1/2 = a lot
PP: 5 + 0/0/1 Domain + 1/0/1 plus 5 + 2/1/1 + 1/1/1 from reset.
2 PP - Guide
A small group of pixies find the Seed of Doom - sorry, "Evervine" - and, recognising its power (somehow) resolve to keep it safe.
PP remaining: 8 + 2/1/2 Domain + 2/1/2 = a lot
Skipping ahead a little as best as a dragonling can do, "And since we giving titles along with names, I am Falrn, the guardian deity."
Moving back next to Ryndell's side, "Don't let my size fool you. I pack a bit of punch in this tiny little body!"
More to the heart of the matter, he turned to the land below. The seas were abundant with life, and as the moons continued to come into their full strength, the tides would only see to increase their bounty. Combined with the weather cycles and things were well in hand. Yet, it was dark. The stars and his moons served to provide light, but it was barely adequate. How could he work on the realm below when he could barely see to begin.
Out beyond the star band, he crafted a new celstial body, further out that the moons and larger and brighter by far, and placed it at it's point in the sky. Of course, too much light is no better than the darkness, so he set all four of his creations to work in harmony with each other. Periods where the new sun would not shine, to let those below rest in the calm light of the moons, lest the first and light scourge the world clean of life. And orderly cycle to make life easier for those below.
Finally able to see the world below clearly in the lught of day, he saw fit to take a good look at the lifeforms his peers had seen fit to create outside of the ocean. He passed over the first few he came across, the flighty pixies, malleable humans, and burly minotaurs, deeming each one not quit the fit for what he sought.
He turned to the south, moving through the jungle as he examined the three species of giant and dissmissing them as too large to accomplish his goals. Returning to the north, he passed through the desert and stumbled over the goblin-kin. For several days he watched, before he finally rejected them as well. Though one of the breed might have been acceptable, as a whole they were too ingrained in warfare and death, so he continued to the north, finally reaching the distant ocean shore.
He nodded. "Here I will begin my work, but there is much to do before I begin. This land is still relatively barren. More life is needed before I can place them here."
He cast about with his powers, conjuring life in many different varieties around him. At his will grasses sprouted and grew in newly enriched soil. To the east, across the river rain came and poured upon the land their, and in this freshly made swamp grew new varieties of trees with soft and easy to cut wood that could be turned as hard as steel when treated with the proper oils and resins. Again, again, and again life sprouted forth in the plain land he floated above and cattle and chicken crawled forth from the dust and grains sprouted amid the more common grass to provide food sources.
Finally satisfied with the state of the lands around him, he prepared to get to work. His journeys were not fruitless, no. Each creature he had witnessed had something worthy of respect, and though he had been without a solid grasp on his goals before leaving, now he was replete with ideas as he prepared to begin his work. Hesitating for a moment, he smiled and a message flew out on silver wings, "I created a living being that was not alive, and now I shall create life from the unliving, just to spite you."
Confident that it would find it's target, tendrils of energy flickered out from Order, nudging and shaping the mud below, forming the bodies of the creature he sought to bring forth. Not as tall as most he had seen in his journey, yet stronger than some and more durable than any. Their physical forms prepared and ready, he delved into their more mental traits, sifting through concepts he had learned through his mental contact with Nos and his own experiences.
He knew there were many things he insisted that they must be. Loyal to a fault, yet cunning. Their thoughts would be orderly, the better to follow the traditions he would lay out for them as they developed. Long memories. All were traits he would value in this creation, and so he put them in place.
Finally, he began work on the most difficult part, instilling life into bodies and minds ready to accept it. Workin on second hand knowledge obeserved from the other races he had examined, he labored long and hard before he finally achieved just the right balance, and in a flash, his creatures were brought to life.
Five of his new dwarves stood before him, alive at last, but he knew it was not enough. These five would simply be the beginning, and he began again, creating more and more dwarves that these five, the first and foremost among his creations, would have allies and servants, wives and friends, that they might continue on without his direct intervention being needed.
As the new born populace milled about, Order shifted and changed aboe them, but he did not realize it, so engrassed was he in his work. His dwarves needed knowledge, and he would give it to them. He granted the knowledge of the trees he had created for them. He granted them knowledge in warcraft that they might defend themselves. And he granted them knowledge of the divine, that they might give thanks to their creation and have a conduit to reach him in their times of need.
Exhaused, Order floated skyward to rest and recuperate from his labors.
[sblock=Mechanics]3 PP - Craft Domain - Nature
3 PP (Order) - Forge Artifact - The Sun, a big ball of light and heat in the sky we all know and love.
1 PP (Moon) - Command - The Moons and Sun bend to Orders will, creating a day and night cycle. Further, the three moons now each have their own lunar cycle. Since the world is not defined as round as far as I know, the cycles just happen. The how and why aren't relevant, and mortal philosophers can debate it all they wish, while we gods remain silent on the matter :D
2 PP (Moon) - Nourish - The seas grow abundant with species of fish and plant life as tidal forces become more established
2 PP (Nature) - Grains and grasses sprout all around Order.
1 PP (Nature) - Command - The lands across the river becomes a swamp forest
2 PP (Nature) - Nourish - The swampy forest is the only home of a unqiue variety of trees. These trees grow rapidly, and their wood is easily cut, but can be rendered nearly as hard as steel when proper resins and oils are applied.
1 PP (Nature) - Spawn - Cattle
1 PP (Nature) - Spawn - Chickens
3 PP - Shape - Dwarves
2 PP (Empower) - Nourish - The dwarves are given a quick population boost, that they might have a strong starting population
2 PP - Guide - Dwarves learn to fashion Iron Wood from the nearby trees, using to fashion all manner of useful implements and weaponry.
2 PP - Guide - Dwarves are masters of warcraft, excelling in combat.
3 PP (Order) - Guide - Used to set the tenets of Dwarven society
Order - 8 + 1/3/0 (Domin) + 0/0/5 remaining
Other notes - Order is no longer an opaque sphere. He now has the appearance of a dwarven warrir
Dwarven Society Basics
Dwarven society is divided on twi of strict lines, with honor being the overarching glue that holds it together. These lines consist of a person's social class and the lineage of their family.
Class breaks down simply among dwarves. Their are slaves, commoners, priests, soldiers, and nobility.
- Slaves: Slaves come in a variety of people. One can be declared a slave for breaking the law, being captures in battle, or as spoils of war. A slave is considered to have no honor, and will remain slaves for the entirety of their lives. Dwarven slaves display an absolute devotion to their duty and subservience to their masters, believing that to do so will grant them a better place in the afterlife.
- - Thess beliefs have a strong impact on dwarven society as a whole. Soldiers will fight to the death if cornered since being captured leads to slavery and loss of all honor. The nobility are considered absolute and defered to simply because they can declare punishment on their disloyal servants and soldiers by making them slaves.
- Commoners: The vast majority of dwarves are commoners, and their is nothing overly atypical about them. They can serve as mechants, artisans, entertainers, mercenaries and so on. However, commoners have very few rights in general.
- Priest: Priests are sacrosant in dwarven society, as to harm them is beleived to bring down the disfavor of the priests god. This status brings the typical priest many benefits, as even complete strangers will offer aid and comfort to priests in hopes of courting divine favor.
- Soldiers: Soldiers among dwarves are warriors oathbound to a family. The family trains and arms the soldier, and the soldier serves the Lord of the family until his death. To be a soldier is a great honor, and to die in battle is considered the greatest honor a soldier can achieve. It is difficult to become a soldier though, as a Lord will only swear a man into service if he is related to an already serving soldier. Dwarven soldiers will often fight to the death,
- Nobility: For now, nobility is only something one can be born with. A dwarf is considered a member of the nobility if they were born to a member of one of the Five Families, and their other parent was not a slave. The Five families are the current law of dwarven society, and all nobles are descended from the patriarch of those families
Family
To dwarven society, family is everything. Disobeying ones parents is shameful, and your lineage is ones greatest source of pride. To be born to an honorable family is far more valued among dwarves then being born to a powerful or wealthy family.
The ultimate proof of this beleif is the rulership of the Five Families. These noble families were founded by the first dwarves created by the gods. These families are the absolute law in dwarven society at the moment as well as their primary source of conflict as they vi for power with each other through a myraid of shifting alliances and agreements.
All of this is held together by the dwarven concept of honor, which they place above all else in value. To be dishonored or be proven an oathbreaker is an unnacceptable shame to a dwarf. Individuals without honor are treated as the worst possible scum, worth nothing in the world and disfavored by the gods. Such individuals often commit suicide or throw themselves recklessly into danger to expiate the shame from themselves and their families.
Class breaks down simply among dwarves. Their are slaves, commoners, priests, soldiers, and nobility.
- Slaves: Slaves come in a variety of people. One can be declared a slave for breaking the law, being captures in battle, or as spoils of war. A slave is considered to have no honor, and will remain slaves for the entirety of their lives. Dwarven slaves display an absolute devotion to their duty and subservience to their masters, believing that to do so will grant them a better place in the afterlife.
- - Thess beliefs have a strong impact on dwarven society as a whole. Soldiers will fight to the death if cornered since being captured leads to slavery and loss of all honor. The nobility are considered absolute and defered to simply because they can declare punishment on their disloyal servants and soldiers by making them slaves.
- Commoners: The vast majority of dwarves are commoners, and their is nothing overly atypical about them. They can serve as mechants, artisans, entertainers, mercenaries and so on. However, commoners have very few rights in general.
- Priest: Priests are sacrosant in dwarven society, as to harm them is beleived to bring down the disfavor of the priests god. This status brings the typical priest many benefits, as even complete strangers will offer aid and comfort to priests in hopes of courting divine favor.
- Soldiers: Soldiers among dwarves are warriors oathbound to a family. The family trains and arms the soldier, and the soldier serves the Lord of the family until his death. To be a soldier is a great honor, and to die in battle is considered the greatest honor a soldier can achieve. It is difficult to become a soldier though, as a Lord will only swear a man into service if he is related to an already serving soldier. Dwarven soldiers will often fight to the death,
- Nobility: For now, nobility is only something one can be born with. A dwarf is considered a member of the nobility if they were born to a member of one of the Five Families, and their other parent was not a slave. The Five families are the current law of dwarven society, and all nobles are descended from the patriarch of those families
Family
To dwarven society, family is everything. Disobeying ones parents is shameful, and your lineage is ones greatest source of pride. To be born to an honorable family is far more valued among dwarves then being born to a powerful or wealthy family.
The ultimate proof of this beleif is the rulership of the Five Families. These noble families were founded by the first dwarves created by the gods. These families are the absolute law in dwarven society at the moment as well as their primary source of conflict as they vi for power with each other through a myraid of shifting alliances and agreements.
All of this is held together by the dwarven concept of honor, which they place above all else in value. To be dishonored or be proven an oathbreaker is an unnacceptable shame to a dwarf. Individuals without honor are treated as the worst possible scum, worth nothing in the world and disfavored by the gods. Such individuals often commit suicide or throw themselves recklessly into danger to expiate the shame from themselves and their families.
"Oh, I'm sure you are quite powerful my friend, but there will be no need for punching anytime soon," said Ryndell. Suddenly a flash of inspiration struck him. Guardians! "I have a gift for you, my new friend" muttered Ryndell. He swirled a gnarled knuckle about in the ambrosia. "I hope you find them amusing". He took a sip, swirled it through his wood like teeth and spat upon the road. Instantly a swarm of Tea Cozen, his first children, issued forth.
They looked similar to Falrn, but were much smaller, and translucent. They shimmered and flitted about, laughing and tittering amongst themselves before searching for wild tea leaves the world over. A few lingered, and sang a sultry melody. They flitted about as the two gods walked along.
Show
2 PP Spawn, 1PP from Tea, 1PP from Bliss - Tea Cozens, Guardians of wild tea plants, they use magic trickery, shenanigans and general spite to protect their vegetative wards. Their blood induces a blissful fugue state, which drives whatever creature is affected to take strides in protecting its precious tea. Only the tea leaves from a Tea Cozen's chosen plant can cure such states.
2 PP Beget Exarch - The first of the Tea Cozen (Unnamed for now)
2 PP Beget Exarch - The first of the Tea Cozen (Unnamed for now)
As they continue to walk along a simple question pops in Falrn's head, "So, what do you hope to find in your travels?"
Thinking upon Ryndell's words and chuckling, "Its not about the destination, but the journey itself."
As the two traveled along, a strange light rose in the distance. It provided more light and warmth than any of the three moons, but it hurt Ryndell's eyes to stare at it for more than a day. It seems the moons have been busy, thought Ryndell, It is a good thing that their child is so much brighter and warmer than they. I should thank them someday for creating such a beautiful construct.
Further along the road, they came across a troop of Dwarves dispersing to lands unknown. Their beards bristled at the sight of the wandering gods, but they kept rank as they marched past in ordered file. For the eyes of mortals do not always ken wha they see, though hearts always know power when it is near.
"What strange creatures Falrn. Have you ever seen anything like them?"
Later, they came across a goblin locked in a crude stockade. Other travelers had pelted the poor creature with bits of rock and rotten vegetables. "What is your crime?" asked Ryndell.
The goblin had led a gaggle of bandits along the road before he was caught and placed at the mercy of the elements. He thought he was going to be saved by the dwarves, but they said he would make a terrible slave, and that he wouldn't last a day marching in their train. The poor creature had resigned himself to death. "What do you make of this, Falrn?" asked Ryndell, "Should I share some of my tea with this pathetic wretch?"
---
The Tea Cozen went across the world, each driven by crude intelligence to settle down among the brambles and wilds. All except one, the first and most cunning among them. She called herself Spit, for that technically is what she was made of. Though she did not know why, she felt herslef compelled to find more creatures like her maker.
Spit desired to speak with gods.
Below the new ball of heat, the world's temperature rose. Was it surprising that the land below changed, melting and writhing under the new order above.
PP and Actions
1 Time - Harm
Under the new sun, the desert begins to grow, the land around it becoming barren and dead.
2PP + 1 Time + 1 Impose - Command (a big one)
The swelling seas drown the shores of the world, causing the landmasses to shrink.
PP remaining: 6 + 0/1/2 Domain + 2/0/2
1 Time - Harm
Under the new sun, the desert begins to grow, the land around it becoming barren and dead.
2PP + 1 Time + 1 Impose - Command (a big one)
The swelling seas drown the shores of the world, causing the landmasses to shrink.
PP remaining: 6 + 0/1/2 Domain + 2/0/2
Looking over the unseemly creature, "why do you choose to do harm? Isn't it better to help?" Turning to Ryndell, "What does your tea do? Is it normal tea? Is it tasty? If it is, it might be beneficial to it."
"It is often said that tea has healing properties. If we gave the creature a taste-" The goblin's pleading grew less fervent as time ebbed on. As it thinned, Ryndell put the bowl to the creature's lips and ambrosia ran down its chin. The goblin grew greedy. The earthen taste healed him, true, but it drew him further and further into an enfatuated state.
"There is something to be gained in drinking ambrosia," Said Ryndell, "but with mortals something is always lost." The goblin gorged itself. Soon the stocks fit too tight about its' neck, and it began to choke. "Only you can make this a happy ending."
Ikola appeared from the aether floating just above Mahzvara, the Walking Continent, which continued its slow plodding steps over the souther portion of the world. The God flared its form in frustration, filaments reaching out in all directions. How narrow-minded its fellow Gods! Nos would understand. Nos was wise, unlike the rest of them. He would at least be willing to consider the possibilities that Ikola would speak of, unlike the hide-bound Order and hypocritical, haughty Omus.
For a moment, Ikola considered calling out for Nos, but instead focused its will towards the earth below. If Change was necessary, then Ikola chose the change of increase, rather than decrease, of more, rather than less. Of abundance rather than famine. And Death would have NO hold over its creations. Not anymore. If the others wouldn't help, then Ikola would merely have to bring about eternal life and joy without them.
Floating, Ikola's filaments wrapped themselves downwards around invisible silouettes, six or so feet in hight, lithe in muscle and frame and with unusually large, insectoid eyes. At the same time, Ikola pushed filaments into the Spiritual and Cognative realms, forming feedback loops between the two and the Material realm, linking the three together tightly around the forming being.
The filaments withdrew and the fifty or so forms stood, shivered in new-life and set about creating the beginings of civilization. Ikola watched as they built, their villages rising up quickly and their population multiplying as more and more of the creatures were brought into the world. The beings seemed ageless and timeless, old age did not touch them. Ikola watched and waited, and was rewarded with a hunting accident, a spear flying through the neck of one of the creatures, who collapsed in a heap of exsanguination. Before it hit the ground, it was unraveling, much as Ikola itself had unraveled, strands of life-essence twisting off of the body, tugged into other planes of reality by the links to the Spiritual and Cognitive realms. With an anguished moan, the hunter who had thrown the spear buried its head in shame, then went to pick up the spear, now lying in the middle of a pile of blood-soaked clothes.
Some days later, at the same spot the creature had died, the same hunter waited, and Ikola watched as, with a glowing wave of creation, the one who had been killed stepped out from places behind and beyond the world, blinking at the bright light of the noontime sun.
Some to near total memory loss was normal for such events, and the time of restoration varied, but it was the one who had done the crime's punishment to wait however long was necessary, speaking with family members and others, to greet the reborn Deva, present him or her with clothing, and try their best to explain who they had been.
Satisfied for now, Ikola plunged from the edge of the Walking Continent, and headed north.
4 PP: Shape Race: Deva. The Deva in this world are tall, humanoid figures with large insectoid eyes and markings running from neck to groin in unique patters for each Deva. Deva always increase. They cannot be killed (at least, not without significant effort) but instead unravel and dissapear only to reappear in the EXACT same spot an indeterminant time later (usually a week, sometimes earlier, sometimes later). Yes, this is PARTICULARLY bad for those Deva that, say, die from falling into a volcano. Every time they die, they lose a significant portion of their memories and with it, some of their personality. Deva can have children.
"That is some interesting tea you have there. I don't think that one will be a problem again."
PP and Actions
Accidentally closed my last version of this... annoying...
1 Empower - Nourish
The desert spreads, but big rainforests start to grow in the more forested areas to the north, nurtured by the now-humid air, particularly where the weather patterns carry moisture from the sea.
1 Empower - Nourish
The swamplands spread inwards from the north and west, become even larger, as their previous demenses are swallowed by the rising sea.
2 PP - Guide
At home in the rainforests, the giants spread out into these new areas, and begin infringing on the territories of other races.
PP remaining: 4 + 0/1/2 Domain + 2/0/0
Accidentally closed my last version of this... annoying...
1 Empower - Nourish
The desert spreads, but big rainforests start to grow in the more forested areas to the north, nurtured by the now-humid air, particularly where the weather patterns carry moisture from the sea.
1 Empower - Nourish
The swamplands spread inwards from the north and west, become even larger, as their previous demenses are swallowed by the rising sea.
2 PP - Guide
At home in the rainforests, the giants spread out into these new areas, and begin infringing on the territories of other races.
PP remaining: 4 + 0/1/2 Domain + 2/0/0
As the two gods conversed, Falrn felt long before he saw the shadow of dragons passing overhead. As they passed on by, he lifted his wing in salute.
OOC
Okay, lets spend this Civilization PP.
PP Log: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Aq2b-HnwlVsedGJIMDFMMThmM1lEd1NJdFc5Nk5wWGc
Populaces: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Aq2b-HnwlVsedHlEbTdxN0lndUdXa1hIdzVzUlliTWc
Map:
Major changes... I'll do it when I get home from work.
Story
Ditto.
Stats
Some changes this week! (Particularly for Ryndell)
Level/Domain(s)/Generate/Impose/Empower/Combat
Ikola. 6/Life:4 Civilization :2 /3/0/1/1
Krulsk. 3/Corruption:2 /2/0/0/1
Death. 5/Death:1 War:1 Earth:2 Metal:1/0/1/2/0
Umi. 4/Ocean:2 Ice:1,Water:1/1/1/0/0
Nos. 4/Knowledge:1 Travel:1 Magic:1,NEW DOMAIN/1/2/0/0
The Architect: 2/Punishment:1/0/0/0/0
Omus: 5/Time:2 Evolution:2 Chromomancy:1 /1/2/1/0
Luxia: 1/Space:1/0/0/0/0
Falrn: 3/Protection:1 DragonKind:1/2/0/0/0
Dagon: 3/Chaos:2 Storm:1/1/0/1/0
Order: 3/Order:1 Moon:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/10
Proprietas:1/Control:1/0/0/0/0
Zeym:2/Dream:1/0/0/0/0
Maiten:2/Fire:1/0/0/0/0
Altuna'Rhai:2/Lightning:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/0/0
Ryndell: 3/Tea:1 Bliss:1 NEW DOMAIN/0/0/1/0
As a race, they were somewhat of an afterthought, in any case. All the major chronicles of the world had thus far omitted their existence entirely, despite the fact they had been around for not an inconsiderable amount of time. At least since last Wednesday, according to Larry from Down South. The Misc were not entirely miffed by their historical state. They weren't fussy about those sorts of things. What they were fussy about was Junk, and its state on their fair Misty Isles.
You see, the Misty Isles of Miscellanous were a collection of small islands far underground, sitting in a grand lake of rainwater, around which had accumulated quite a fair bit of oddities over the years. You see, anything anyone ever through out ended up in Miscellanous eventually. That was simply how it worked. It would make its way down through the crust of the earth, and then through a series of brooks and channels, it would end up in the Great Big Sea of Stuff. And the choiciest of these bits invariably found their way to the centre of the Sea to be used and abused by the Misc. It really was a wonderful arrangement. And for the bits that were needed that simply didn't have the sense to make their way to the Misc on their own, the Misc would send out little boats made of lashed-together doors and go searching on their own.
Occasionally, the Misc would stumble upon a bit or bobble which didn't seem to come from anywhere. These things, they said, were tossed down by the One Who is Trashed, either as failed experiments or, depending on whom you asked, jokes he was playing on the helpless mortals. These the Misc would prize above all other things. Often, strange things like wigs or copper kettles would be hoisted up on broom handles above the houses of the Misc, which huddled together like moist sugar-cubes, to proclaim to the majesty of the One Who Has Been Thrown Out.
PP
2 PP Shape Race : The Misc
3 PP Mold Land : Create the Great Big Sea of Stuff.
3 PP Mold Land : Create the Great Big Sea of Stuff.