Occasus

"The woods are always singing. You become familiar with their songs over time. You will also learn it is best to stay out when they are composing something new."

Lore
A relatively new and secluded society, Occasus was born from a series of mishaps.

Starving marauders driven by desperation stumbled across her shores solely by chance and, on the brink of death, they scavenged what they could until lucidity settled over them once more. They rose with the sun the next morning, delving further into her depths and securing a foothold in what they believed would be their salvation. The forest proved to be an unexplored bounty of riches and they were quick to exploit it. They sent word back home, to Elysium, encouraging a lucrative trade route between the two isles and began farming the land. Careless and overzealous, they overplayed their hand and began to take more than they gave back...

And the forest began to take notice.

It was slow, subtle, at first, seemingly innocent setbacks that merely inconvenienced underpaid workers. Well worn paths would take on new shapes, guiding even the most experienced astray and eventually, leading them to their demise.

Once docile creatures grew mad, destroying everything in their path and taking out anyone unfortunate enough to be caught unawares. Even the most skilled and versatile hunters struggled to take down the beasts that threatened their livelihood, and they were quickly overwhelmed. Those that still could, ran, pulling anchor and retreating; steeling themselves to face the repercussions that would no doubt follow them back home.

However, not all were able to reach the docks in time. Some would fall behind, incapacitated by the forest and left alone to their fate.

Those that survived the onslaught tread cautiously, building a place to call home from the ruins of a budding empire and attempting to repent for their past mistakes. With the initial threat receding, Occasus quieted her initial assault, though she is quick to remind those who step out of bounds what she is capable of.

The calamity has left a permanent mark upon the isle, with over-farmed land remaining barren and scarred, and creatures touched by madness still roam free...

but, despite the risks, the land is fertile and provides for the ones that nourish it.

Take Note

 * All of Occasus’ original settlers hail from Elysium. Your character cannot have been born on the isle unless they are under 13 years old.
 * Eight years have passed since the calamity, though most struggle to remember any intimate details of what happened to cause the island to react with such vitriol - perhaps they were too busy keeping their head down.
 * Those that survived have -for the most part- settled well into life on the isle, creating a home for themselves and learning to deal with some of Occasus’ more challenging occupants.
 * Willa initially stepped up to lead what was left of the people, and has remained in power ever since. She is a good leader, but not a great one.
 * The threat of Elysium returning remains a constant on every citizen’s mind, aware that some still consider the rewards from the island greater than the risk.
 * Due to the limited number of survivors that made it back, rumours began to spread as news of the disaster hit; suggesting that (perhaps) the reason the trading route fell through was the act of sirens, ones that sung such sweet melodies they managed to serenade both man and ship down into their watery graves.

Culture

 * What Occasians lacks in infrastructure, they make up for with an abundance of resources at their hooves. They are competent resource gatherers and most possess a natural talent for harnessing the power of life; cultivating and growing what they need to survive.
 * They are incredibly reliant on magic and in tune with nature, to the point their methods would be considered primitive to most. They live comfortably off the land and want for very little, as the current generation knows next to nothing of life off the island.
 * Occasians care little for gender identity and even less about formalities. Small communities of close-knit, ‘found’ families or lovers are not uncommon, as, after all, the more eyes you have, the safer you will be.
 * Independent thinking is pushed from a young age and children are always encouraged to test boundaries and explore their surroundings, learning from experience over dusty tomes. This is thought to help bring out their magic potential, forcing them to think on their feet and gauge the gravity of a situation without an outside influence holding their hoof.
 * Survival is one of the prime lessons instilled into every Occasian from a young age. Ranging from what to eat and how to weave, education on the island consists of basic necessities and survival skills. The majority of the population does not know how to read or write, though the occasional scribe is not unheard of.
 * However, as they say, old bones do not dwell above ground for long. Despite their best efforts, the average lifespan of an Occasian is around 35 to 40 years old. Most Occasians die young due to the harsh nature of the island and perhaps, a few poor life choices.

Law
Run under a democracy. The council meets twice a year -or after six full moons have passed- to discuss new events and bring grievances of the current year forward. All who consider themselves part of the community are required to attend, as voting is mandatory and directs what action needs to be taken towards the offending party. The Overseer has the final say on what punishment and/or compensation will be handed out after the voting has concluded.

Spirituality
Occasus does not possess a unified religion, but rather a common spirituality. There is no dogma or written rituals; no prescribed prayers or chants. The lore is simple; Gaelus is Mother Nature and Her domain is sacred. Reverence for nature is the cornerstone of Occasian spirituality and is the only truly essential feature. How a person exercises their spirituality is left completely up to the individual. Some practice self-created rituals, write and sing songs for their devotions, or simply walk amongst the wilds to feel connected to Her.

While faiths vary wildly, a popular belief is that the island of Occasus is, in fact, the ‘Heart of the World’ or ‘Gaelus’ Heart’; the wellspring from where all-natural energy and life emanates. This is why the island is so defensive and subject to the Mother’s whims. Many Occasians consider themselves to be the protectors of the Heart, viewing living on the island as a privilege in living so close to the Mother, despite the dangers. Among those who subscribe to this belief, Willa is thought of as to be ‘touched by Gaelus’ heart’ and serves as a conduit to the Mother and her will.

Most do not think of Gaelus as a conscious deity or being, but rather a spirit or essence of nature. Praying to Gaelus is rare, as it is typically believed that no one is listening. Practitioners rather worship to reconnect themselves to nature and accept themselves as a part of the natural cycle.

Nature giveth, and nature taketh away.

Death
Funerals are often small affairs, struck between a few loved ones and a Guardian. Provided a body can be found, the deceased will be taken to one of several dig sites, where they will be buried accordingly and the chosen Guardian will be tasked with watching over their grave for signs of unrest.

Instead of tombstones, a sapling is planted at the head of their grave as a marker, with the process of decomposition often sped up with the help of a gifted life user, encouraging the elements to reclaim what once belonged to them.

Groves of passed loved ones can then be found wherever tree branches entwine, signifying their union and final resting place. Fairy rings are frequently found around these areas as well, dotted around the landscape and marking a clear path.

If a body is not buried, it is thought that their soul will be left to wander aimlessly, forever...

Perhaps there is some truth in that.

Social

 * Limited, social groups are more common for private unions due to the expanse of the island, but it is not unheard of for larger celebrations to occur, depending on the couples’ personal preference. These events are usually large and inviting, filled with revelry and hallucinogens.


 * Waterfalls and the beaches are considered prime locations to hang out in Occasus, offering a place to unwind or a place to be a little daring, jumping off cliffs and outcroppings into the water below. A few waterfalls even boast hidden caves behind them, but be on your guard, not all of them are empty.


 * Besides exploration and playing pretend, a common game for children to play is “Find”. It is a game where an item, usually a pretty stone or pearl, is hidden within a specified area. One person is designated to hide the trinket whilst the rest are the considered seekers. Whoever finds the item is allowed to keep it.

It is a means to celebrate the upcoming new year, and to be thankful for all that you have been given. Beyond food and drink, there are numerous activities to take part in, though its most prominent event is “the unraveling”.
 * Every year, there is a gathering held next to the largest tree on the island, known as Yggdrasil, where there’s wine, food, and various, precious commodities that are shared throughout the herd. It is known most commonly as the “merchant’s gathering.”

Numerous ribbons are strung beneath the branches of Yggdrasil, and each participant is handed a ribbon to untangle from the others. At the end of each ribbon, there is another person, giving you the chance to meet someone new and potentially strike up a conversation (or something more).

Any Murmur worth their salt will insist that there is the chance your one, true love will be at the end of the strand - though how much truth to this remains yet to be seen for most.

Trade
Occasus is currently closed to all factions. Due to the expansive coral growth surrounding the island, it is next to impossible to launch or receive ships.

Those that wash up on Occasus' shores these days will find themselves greeted with hostility and general mistrust, provided they make it beyond the first copse of trees.

Ranks

 * Overseer: The final voice in what must be said or done, voted into power by the people.


 * Venators: Tasked with finding those who are lost, or hunting down dangerous creatures that threaten those around them.


 * Murmurs: Curators of songs, stories, and may also guide or charm strangers in exchange for goods or services rendered.
 * Mudlarks: Quick on their feet and at home in the wilds, Mudlarks are tasked with finding unique and rare culinary or medicinal items that others covet.
 * Guardians: Keepers of the grave and a companion to the dead.
 * Sawbones: (unlicensed) medics, no they don’t take your insurance.

Ancestral Talent
Note: As most inhabitants were not born on the isle, this is a rare talent for them to possess.

Blood Manipulation

 * Level 1: You find yourself able to still the flow of blood from small, insignificant wounds that you have picked up on your general person; greatly reducing the need to soil good linen.
 * Level 2: Bloodied knees and dripping noses are now a thing of the past, as you find yourself growing more confident in your abilities; able to help stem even the most grievous of wounds of both friend and foe.
 * Level 3: You are able to separate toxins from the bloodstream, removing and curing most poisons and ridding ailing patients of bloodborne diseases. You are able to redirect and halt the flow of blood at will, allowing you the capability to staunch potentially fatal injuries and promote rapid rehabilitation.
 * With this newfound ability, also comes the ability to fight for the control of another’s autonomy, granting you the power to create horrific (and generally unwilling) marionettes. You can control up to four beings at a time for up to an hour, but the power is considered to be incredibly taxing on the user, and can cause numerous side effects such as nausea, blacking out, experiencing a temporary loss of power and in extreme cases, even death.

Geography

 * Just like it’s cohabitants, the forest is a fickle domain, and though not outrightly malicious, it does not take kindly to outsiders and is likely to guide the cruel or careless astray, leading to what most would refer to as a ‘tragic and preventable accident’. It is an endless maze of flora, one that seems to fluctuate and shift as often as the weather does.
 * Predominantly rainforest based, the paths are ever-changing; growing and adapting to suit the current climate. Its inhabitants can be found dotted throughout the landscape, putting down roots wherever they feel most comfortable over convenience.
 * Numerous dead zones still scar the landscape due to overfarming, with the brittle bones of primitive buildings still lying scattered across them, but it is slowly but surely being taken back by the forest and its inhabitants.
 * Unexplored caverns and the start of a mining operation --long abandoned-- can be found if you know the way.
 * Deep ravines separate parts of the isle, leading to numerous underwater coves and vibrant coral reefs; most of these are considered to be uncharted terrain, but their otherworldly beauty is sure to charm even the most obstinate of minds, should they only be willing to jump.
 * The island remains warm and humid all year round, creating an uncomfortable but ideal climate for cultivating and growing produce.

Infrastructure

 * Creating only what is needed and nothing more, most living spaces are crafted from what already exists within the forest; utilising natural structures and shaping them into suitable and desirable homes.
 * The heart of the island, Astrea, still keeps a handful of run-down buildings from the catalyst era, where the original settlers had temporarily made their home. Now they are used to house official court proceedings, social gatherings and for those running hard on their luck.


 * Due to the spread-out nature of most Occasians, there is a small market gathering within the heart that takes place every two weeks; creating ample opportunities to socialise and barter or trade for goods.

Prominent Locations

 * Astrea: Original housing for the first settlers. What remains, for the most part, have been abandoned, but a few buildings have been salvaged over time.
 * Illisum: The area that the original settlers from Elysium destroyed, it remains dormant and untouched by nature.
 * Yggdrasil: A great tall tree where gatherings and events are held.
 * Isylalin: A hub of trade and marketplace for Occasians.
 * Nyllasari: The largest swamp on the island.
 * Lorelei Fields: An enormous field of Sundew plants has made a name for itself close to the heart of the isle, growing far beyond their average proportions and creating a sizable graveyard for those unfortunate enough to fall for its sickly charm.

Fauna
Mammals: Tiger, Jaguar, Ocelot, Puma, Margay, Jaguarundi, Leopards, Genet, Caracal, Domestic Cat, Cape Fox, Jackal, Tasmanian Devil, Thylacine, Striped Hyena, Spotted Hyena, Aardwolf, Brown Hyena, (African) Wild Dog, Domestic Dog, Mongoose, Coati, Badger, Otter, Lemur, Skunk, Rabbit, Hare, Sloth, Armadillo, Miniature Cow, Capybaras, Warthog, Tapir, Javelin, Bush Pig, Mice, Seals, Various Bats.

Birds: Macaws, Hoatzin, Vulture, Tucan, Etc.

Reptiles: Various Snakes, Turtles, Alligators, Chameleons, Geckos, Skinks, Etc.

Amphibians: Various Frogs, Axolotls.

Crustaceans: Various Crabs, Etc.

Mythical

 * Keras
 * Ruah
 * Wisps

Links

 * Discord Server


 * Pinterest Board
 * Playlist
 * Map