Hybrid Chronicles

Chapter 1: 1 - The Legendary Speaker



1: The Legend Speaker Welcome traveler. Do you have the time to listen to a story? Don't be alarmed by my weathered appearance; I assure you I'm not more than an old man who is knowledgeable in this land of Harrowgoth. I've gone by many names in my time, but you can call me the Legend Speaker. It's not a short story by any means, but if you have the time, I'd like to share with you the tale of Harrowgoth, a land steeped in ancient lore and mystery, and how it came to be. Harrowgoth is a place of legend, with regions known for their illustrious heritage and enchanting allure, while other, more evil areas are shrouded in darkness and danger; few dare to venture there. Yet, according to the stories told by those who came after creation, the land that would grow into Harrowgoth was once a flourishing, prosperous place, ruled by no one and appreciated by all. Despite the rapid development of civilizations, there is still so much to be discovered and explored in this place many of us call home. Humans are not the dominant species but one of the many diverse and magnificent beings that claim Harrowgoth as their homeland. The land of Harrowgoth is rich with diverse vegetation, from the towering, tall trees of Tracap in the west to the dark red and sturdy crimson wood trees in the south. This lush landscape is ripe for exploration, yet it is also hazardous for those who dare to venture forth to see its secrets. Of the seven kingdoms in this world, humans are known to stay within the boundaries of their regions, with only traders occasionally venturing into other territories to conduct business in the global neutral lands. This is due to the many dangers that exist in nature, from fearsome beasts to treacherous landscapes; Harrowgoth is a world of wonders. Despite the risks, many adventurers, want-to-be and worthy, still venture out into the wild to discover what the planet has to offer. Whether exploring the verdant forests or traversing treacherous mountains, they are met with new challenges and surprises at every turn. Yet, through their bravery and determination, the mysteries of this world are slowly being unraveled, and the full extent of its diversity and beauty is gradually being uncovered. Harrowgoth is home to thousands of people across vast and varying lands, each of which is ruled by god-like creatures of varying races, commonly referred to as Hybrids for their uncanny appearances. Yet, despite its immense size, stretching from coast to coast and from the northern mountains to the southern wooded wastelands, no one has ever dared to venture beyond its borders. In fact, with the world's current technology, it is seemingly impossible to sail through the dreaded blue water. The journey to traverse Harrowgoth is arduous, with some believing it would take two seasons to walk from the eastern shore to the western coast and almost all four seasons to travel from north to south. This has been speculation, of course, as proof of these estimates has never been made. Yet, there is a legend of a man named Deckard the Grey who accomplished this feat in just one year, becoming the first person to circumnavigate the entire continent. He was said to be a simple old man, such as myself, even possessing some of my own features like my long grey beard and silky white hair. While some may dismiss this tale as mere folklore, others point to the existence of the Grey Map, a topographical map of Harrowgoth with the initials "DG" inked onto the back, as evidence of Deckard's incredible journey. But even if the estimated time it took Deckard the Grey to travel the great expanse that is Harrowgoth, it does not consider the many dangers and obstacles a traveler would encounter in order to make the journey. The winding paths of the Aries Mountains, the maze-like forest before the Tracap tall trees, or the unpredictable Lava Fields in Ain, a serpent-infested land in the southwest. Nevertheless, the allure of discovering the unknown and uncovering the secrets of Harrowgoth continues to inspire adventurers and dreamers alike, to which many meet their fate. In the land of Harrowgoth, the year is divided into four distinct seasons, each with its unique characteristics, and four seasons make up the solstice cycle. The first season of the year is known as the green season. During this season, the farmers plant their crops, and the animals mate, bringing new life to the land. The warm breeze carries the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, and the twitter of newborn animals fills the air. It's a time of hope and new beginnings. After the green season comes the sun season, marked by long, warm days and sultry nights. The sun shines brightly, and the sky is a deep shade of blue. The rivers and lakes are teeming with life, and the people of Harrowgoth spend their days basking in the sun and enjoying the warmth. It's a season of joy and celebration. The third season is the harvest season. The days grow shorter, and the air is crisp and cool. The crops are ready to be harvested, and the farmers work tirelessly in the fields to gather the bounty of the land. The trees shed their leaves, and the forests take on a golden hue. It's a time of hard work but also of gratitude for the abundance of nature. Finally, the snow season arrives, bringing with it cold and icy winds. The snow covers the land in a soft white blanket, and the people of Harrowgoth retreat into their homes to keep warm. The days are short, and the nights are long, but there's a certain magic in the air. For many, the snow season is a time of rest and contemplation, a time to reflect on the year that has passed and prepare for the new cycle of seasons. Different regions in Harrowgoth experience the four seasons in unique ways. For example, the Kalloamin region in the north has a longer snow season due to its high altitude and northern location. In contrast, the town of Ain, built over a network of lava fields, rarely experiences snow, even during the snow season. When it does snow, the hot lava beneath the surface prevents it from settling on the ground. The green season runs a greater risk of floods in the eastern town of Pau. However, the civilization there has learned to adapt to this, with experience and preparedness to deal with the potential disaster. Despite these regional differences, the four seasons remain a constant presence across Harrowgoth, marking the passage of time and affecting the lives of all who live there. The Aries Mountains to the north are a testament to nature's raw power and beauty. Their peaks tower above the world, reaching toward the sky. The nearby townsfolk have long whispered tales of the mysterious summit, saying that it's possible to reach the stars themselves if one were to make it to the top. Although no one has been able to verify these claims, the allure of this great unknown continues to inspire countless adventurers and dreamers. Needless to say, the lay of the land is only assumed and not specific. Those who live and rule over their respected territories know the property within their boundaries. What most mortals speculate, their Hybrid rulers know slightly more about. With thousands of species discovered, from fish and birds to trees and plants, there are still plenty of unknown creatures. As for the rulers of the seven kingdoms belonging to more curious races, such as the Scaleskin serpent-folk of Ain or the White Feather owl people of Tracap, there are less intelligent beasts made from fantastical and strange qualities. Perhaps of all the beasts that claim homage to Harrowgoth, Drakons are among the rarest yet most feared. They are mystical giant lizard-like creatures with fiery breath and razor-sharp claws, making them formidable opponents for any beast, human, or Hybrid. Despite their fearsome reputation, they are known for their immense strength and remarkable instincts. It is said that they possess a unique understanding of the value of treasure and are, therefore, often believed to live in the various uninhabited caves and crevices of the Lava Fields, guarding the riches they plucked from any unlucky travelers. Their fiery breath is not just a tool for defense but also a weapon they use to melt down the gold and other precious metals to create their hoards. This ability is one reason why they are revered as protectors of treasure. The sheer power and ferocity of a Drakon are awe-inspiring, and it is believed that the experience will forever change anyone who meets one of these creatures if they were to survive the encounter. Despite their fearsome reputation, Drakons are also known for their enigmatic nature. They are said to be wise beyond their years and deeply understand the world around them. This is likely because they've allegedly existed in Harrowgoth since the Old Gods created it. It's also true that dragons age in terms of centuries, which makes it hard to age them. In this strange medieval land, the legend of the drakon is deeply ingrained in the culture and folklore of its many people. They are revered as powerful and magnificent creatures and are often the subject of epic tales and poems. Whether they are guarding a treasure hoard or flying high in the sky, the sight of a Drakon is truly a breathtaking and terrifying sight to behold. Griffins, on the other hand, are creatures that can be trained by those who are patient and brave enough to do so. Unlike Drakons, griffins are much smaller, with a weight comparable to that of a large warhorse. Yet, despite their smaller size, they are powerful creatures with a unique combination of a lion, with its muscular and robust frame, while its head resembles that of an eagle, with sharp talons and a keen eye for prey. This marriage of fierceness and strength makes griffins an ideal companion for warriors and hunters, who have been known to train them to hunt and fight alongside them. Griffins are also known for their courage, and it is said that they will not back down from even the most dangerous foes. This bravery, combined with their strength, makes them symbols of power and protection, and they are often depicted in art and literature as guardians of kingdoms and protectors of the weak. Despite their fearsome reputation, griffins are also said to have a gentle and affectionate side, and it is rumored that those who win their trust can form strong bonds with these creatures. In this strange, primitive land, griffins are widely regarded as magnificent creatures that embody the ideals of strength, courage, and protection. Therefore, those who have had the privilege of encountering one of these magnificent creatures hold them in high esteem. Even the four seas of Harrowgoth are home to a multitude of mysterious species, one of the most fascinating of which is the Merfolk. These half-human, half-fish creatures reside in the ocean's deep waters and have formed a primitive yet functional makeshift underwater kingdom. The female Merfolk are known for their ethereal beauty and melodic singing voices, which have captivated sailors and mariners since the beginning of time. On the other hand, the males are generally hairless with goblin-like qualities, small eyes, and long, thin, sharp teeth. They are often depicted as mischievous and even dangerous to humans, and tales of their scuttling ships that venture too far from shore are widespread. In addition, they are known to use the resources and tools from these wreckages as their own, leading some to view them as barbaric. Despite their reputation, little is known about the Merfolk, as they keep to themselves and generally dislike any life forms from the land. This secrecy has led to much speculation and many unanswered questions about their society, culture, and way of life. Some say their underwater kingdom is a place of great wonder and beauty, filled with glittering gems and shimmering scales. Others claim it is a dark and foreboding place, ruled by powerful sea witches and guarded by deadly sea monsters. With the land of Harrowgoth barely being explored, the land-dwellers know far less about the four seas. Regardless of the many tales and legends surrounding the Merfolk, they remain one of the most fascinating and enigmatic creatures of Harrowgoth. Their beauty, power, and mysterious allure continue to captivate the imaginations of those who dare to venture past the blue water. A more well-known beast on land is the helephant, which are genuinely massive creatures that resemble giant mammoths, with long trunks and massive tusks that are capable of impaling anything that dares to anger one of these beasts. They are cumbersome, with a weight that can easily surpass 100 or more average soldiers and a height of nearly five men tall. They are highly sought-after for their strength and endurance, and as a result, they are often enslaved and trained to serve as war beasts and to aid with construction efforts. Helephants are also highly valued by two of the kingdoms of Harrowgoth: Dekan, the Order of Brawn, and Yulo, the Order of the Hoof. A slightly smaller breed of helephant also roams the southern shores; however, they are scarce due to being hunted to near extinction. Their tusks and hides are highly sought-after resources, and their smaller stature makes them much easier to hunt. Helephants are genuinely magnificent creatures highly valued for their strength and endurance. Their massive size and impressive tusks make them ideal beasts for war, shall one occur, while their endurance and strength make them ideal workhorses. Whether serving as war beasts or aiding construction efforts, helephants are essential to life in Harrowgoth for the regions that rely on them. In the Dekan region, ruled by the Order of Brawn, they commonly use the helephants as war beasts, and it is said that the sight of a helephant charging into battle is enough to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest of soldiers. While war has yet to break out in Harrowgoth, there have been plenty of skirmishes and lives lost over them. As time goes on, the lands bordering Dekan are growing more intimidated by the day because they possess such destructive beasts. While the Yulo, ruled by the Order of the Hoof, use helephants as beasts of burden, making them move heavy stones and other construction materials throughout their boundaries. With their massive size and strength, the helephants are an essential part of the Yulo's construction efforts. It's worth noting that thousands of species roam the lands, but only seven kingdoms own the land. While I could go on for days about all the flora and fauna of Harrowgoth, that is not my purpose with this story. Instead, the heart of the story I wish to tell begins in the farthest region to the north. The Aries Mountains stand tall and proud, towering over the lush valley below. Yet, despite the treacherous heights, the Hollow Horns, a race of ram-like creatures known for their strength, intelligence, and unique horns, call it their home. Their leader, Khnum, is an honorable ruler, standing over 7 feet tall with snow-white fur, making him stand out, even amongst his own kind. He is a wise and respected leader known for his calm and collected demeanor, but not all of the Hollow Horns are as well-liked as Khnum. His Man-at-Arms, Seth, is a source of fear and mistrust among the humans who live halfway down the Aries Mountains in the well-protected valley. Yet, despite Seth not having the friendliest demeanor towards the humans, he lives closer to them than any of the other Hollow Horns. Seth stands even taller than Khnum, with fur as dark as charcoal and skin as black as night; he is known for his brooding nature and aggressive tendencies. His eyes are blood red, and his horns are just as black as his fur with somewhat of a demonic coil. Yet, despite his fearsome reputation, he is a trusted advisor to Khnum and would be a valuable asset in times of war. The humans under their rule, the Kalloamins, live in peace and prosperity, with the Hollow Horns providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive. To the people, home is known simply as the valley, or more specifically, the Riverwood Valley. Unlike other kingdoms, such as the Yulo, the Hollow Horns do not enslave their people but help them flourish. Primarily, the humans stay in Riverwood Valley, but a few are permitted to live in Kalloamin and serve the Aries Order. Humans who live amongst the Hollow Horn wear a purple sash sewn into their clothing to signify that they work directly with the Order. Yet, despite the strong relationships between the Hollow Horns and their people, the fear of Seth looms over them like a dark shadow. Among the Hollow Horns of Kalloamin, there is one who stood apart from the rest. He is known as Gnasher the Observer and is a smaller, slighter figure than the other Hollow Horns. Though still larger than a mortal man, he is known for his wit and intelligence rather than his strength or prowess. He is a curious Hybrid with reddish-orange fur covering his upper torso and horns that curve slightly upward. Of all the male Hollow Horns, his horns are the smallest. Unlike the other male Hollow-Horns, who brandished weapons and trained for battle, Gnasher is more of an intellectual, frequently opting to journey into the valley to study the humans who lived there and remain hidden from their sight so that he could observe them interact freely. Despite his peaceful nature, Gnasher is still well respected by most of his fellow Hollow Horns, who value his insights and knowledge. In addition, he is known for his gentle demeanor and ability to connect with the humans of Kalloamin in ways that the others could not. Gnasher took on a crucial role as the Hollow Horns of Kalloamin prepared for the challenges ahead. He is tasked with keeping a watchful eye on the humans in the Valley, reporting back to Khnum and Seth with any information that could be useful in their efforts to protect their home and their people. Gnasher struggles with his personal journey, as he is constantly torn between his loyalty to his own kind and his desire to understand the humans he observed. But he remains determined to do whatever it takes to keep Kalloamin safe, even if it means putting himself in harm's way. With his keen mind and his unwavering resolve, Gnasher has proved himself multiple times in the past how he can be an invaluable asset to the Hollow Horns of Kalloamin. And as the journey ahead would surely grow ever more challenging, Khnum knows that he can count on him to be a steadfast ally, using his wit and wisdom to help aid them in any means necessary. The Hollow-Horns of Kalloamin live a simple yet fulfilling life, where each member of their tribe is responsible for specific tasks that contribute to the survival and prosperity of their community. The male Hollow Horns are accountable for protection, building, and hunting. They are the guardians of their home and the main providers for their people, using their strength and cunning to keep their tribe safe and fed. On the other hand, the female Hollow Horns have a more nurturing role and are permitted to learn various forms of magic within their culture. With their tall and slender frames, they tend to the young, cook for their tribe, craft valuable tools, and harvest food from the fertile land. Two sisters, Thea and Thora, dabble in two types of mage work. Thea, the Healer, specializes in white healing magic, while her sister, Thora, the Plant Alchemist, is skilled with plant magic. The women of the Hollow Horns are the backbone of their society, ensuring that their families are taken care of, and their homes are comfortable and welcoming. Aside from Gnasher, the female Hollow Horns frequent the humans more often than the males. In addition to the adult Hollow-Horns, there are a few juvenile members of their species who are growing into adult forms called youthlings. While it takes a human adolescent around fifteen years to be considered an adult, it takes a youthling nearly thirty years to achieve the same status. These young ones were often looked after by the females and were given tasks that were suitable for their age and abilities. Newborns are the equivalent of human infants, taking nearly five years to become a youthling. This may seem like quite a long time to age, but the average lifespan of a Hollow Horn is around one hundred and fifty years or so. However, the Hollow-Horn way of life is not without its challenges. Their species only give birth once, and not until after aging beyond fifty years. This means that each female would typically only have one pregnancy per lifetime. Despite this, there was a notable exception to the norm in the tribe's history. Over a century ago, the first set of Hollow-Horn twins was born to the second generation, but they disappeared after venturing off to explore the Pau region, ruled by the Order of the Keen, a race of bipedal deer-like creatures called the Ungulates. Foul play wasn't suspected, but their bodies were never recovered, and the twin Hollow Horns were never seen again. The loss of the twin Hollow Horns was a tragic event that impacted the entire tribe; however, despite their challenges, they remain strong and resilient, using their love and support for one another to endure and flourish in the treacherous world of Harrowgoth. The humans of the Riverwood Valley live much shorter lives, with an average lifespan of around seventy years. However, despite the significant age difference between the two species, the Hollow Horns and the humans have developed a strong bond over the years, one that is based on mutual respect and trust. Pietro is the oldest member of the tribe, and he's always made it his personal mission to bridge the gap between the Hollow Horns and humans. As one of the original members of the Hollow Horn race, he holds in his mind a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that is revered by all, earning him the nickname of Ancient One. Even at the ripe age of four hundred, Pietro remains active and involved in the daily affairs of the Hollow Horn society. There have been numerous accounts where he has been called upon for advice by both Khnum and Seth, and he's well-respected for his level-headedness and fairness. The fact that the Ancient One is somewhere around four hundred is quite astonishing, considering that Hollow Horns in the past generally passed on near the age of one hundred and fifty. Despite his once-mighty stature, Pietro's size has shrunken drastically, and now he stands only a hair taller than Gnasher, the shortest of the adult males. His frame is frail and gangly, but his spirit and will remain unbroken. Despite Pietro's advanced years, he still possesses a sharp mind and a keen wit that is highly respected by his fellow Hollow Horns, as well as some neighboring friends. The Ancient One stands out from the others due to his thick but soft fur that is nearly the same shade of grey as the mountains they live on. His horns are long, thin, gnarled, and appear shiny like polished marble. It is a testament to Pietro's long and fruitful life that his fur has become slightly discolored in some areas, giving him quite a unique appearance that is instantly recognizable amongst the Hybrids. Despite his frailty, he still carries himself with pride and dignity; his foggy blue eyes shine with a fierce intelligence that belies my age-earned wisdom. His voice may be weak, but his words carry great weight and are highly valued by this community of Hollow Horns, our followers, and others. For centuries, the Hollow Horns have governed Kalloamin with a firm but gentle hand, and their rule has been marked by stability and prosperity. The humans of the valley look up to their rulers with awe and admiration, and the Hollow Horns hold them in high regard as well. It is a rare and harmonious relationship between two very different species and one that has been sustained through the centuries. The Ivory Castle, the seat of power for the Kalloamin region, is located on the highest peak of the Aries Mountains. It's a breathtaking structure, white as snow, and stands tall and proud as the symbol of Hollow Horn rule. From the throne room window, one can see the entire land of the Hollow Horns and the Riverwood Valley below. The valley is filled with humans living in the mountain's shadow, but the Ivory Castle is so high that the people are difficult to see; only the houses and fields are visible. As a third-generation Hollow Horn, Khnum is the third leader of his kind to rule over the region. While mothers play an essential role in the upbringing of the youthlings, the males do not. In the case of Khnum, his father, Hectre, served as High Ruler, and his grandfather, Anubis, served before him. Hectre's brother, Gareth, was another influential member of the Hollow Horns, but shortly after Khnum's birth, he set out on an expedition to discover more of Harrowgoth for the Order of the Aries, but he never returned; his fate remains unknown to this day. Before that, the land of Harrowgoth had not yet been created by the Maker. As for Khnum, he takes his responsibilities seriously and is well respected by the people of the Riverwood Valley. He is the inheritor of a legacy that stretches back centuries, and his ancestors have worked hard to maintain a peaceful and prosperous land. They have all contributed to the rich history of the Hollow Horns and the Kalloamin region, and Khnum is determined to continue their legacy for generations to come. The first generation of Hollow Horns were a group shrouded in mystery and folklore among the current generation. They were said to have possessed powerful magic, something that was not commonly seen in the other intelligent beings of Harrowgoth. Some believed they were blessed by the gods and were the guardians of the land, tasked with keeping balance and harmony. Despite the lack of written records, the story of the first generation was passed down through oral tradition, and every young Hollow Horn learned of their legacy and the duties that came with being one of their kind. For example, it was said that the first generation had a deep connection to the land and the elements and could control the weather and manipulate the earth to their will. While this trait has been surely lost over the years, the possibility of being true leaves a lot to the imagination. The current generation of Hollow Horns, led by Khnum, take it on as their duty to continue the legacy of their ancestors and maintain the peace and prosperity of Harrowgoth. Although the first generation was long gone, aside from Pietro, their influence is still felt throughout the land. Pietro remains among the smartest of the species; however, his memory regarding the times of Harrowgoth during the first generation seems to escape him. The Hollow Horns hold their ancestors in high esteem and revere their memory, always looking to their example for guidance and inspiration. The story of the first generation serves as a reminder of the power and responsibility that came with being a Hollow Horn, and it is a reminder to always strive for greatness and uphold their duties as protectors of Harrowgoth.

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