Black Hole: The Book of Iratus, Episode 101

Chapter 1001

Iratus and Victoria entered a magnificent building—well-lit and well-maintained, with only a few areas still showing signs of repair. Deficio followed behind, still radiating priestly grace, while Resolutio, Salvos, and Otiosus brought up the rear, constantly alert.

Soon, Resolutio leaned casually against a wall, chatting with Rimush, who mirrored her posture. Iratus could see she was smiling—genuinely enjoying herself.

Otiosus had already gravitated to a snack table, eating his heart out. Iratus watched as a familiar face approached him—Tristan, the human from the Festival of Blood. Relief touched Iratus; the man had survived that nightmare. Tristan's hair was shorter now, but he was still lean, and his voice still deep.

Tristan: "You."

Otiosus: "Hm? Me?"

Tristan: "You dare show your face here?"

Otiosus shoved another piece of sausage into his mouth, unbothered.

Otiosus: "I remember you. Festival of Blood. You murdered a bunch of random people. How about you—how dare you show your face here?"

Tristan: "This is human territory."

Otiosus: "And I'm a bodyguard for your guest, which makes me a guest."

Tristan: "What—didn't the mouse kill a lot of your people?"

Otiosus: "My people? They were a place to stay. Good coin when offers came around. But their leadership? Messy. Crazy. Just one day living in Lionhearth is better than a lifetime with a bunch of problematic bros."

Tristan crossed his arms, clearly working through a comeback.

Otiosus: "I remember you hated random folk. Bloodforged, mostly. How's that going for you?"

Tristan: "The only thing that matters is how useful you are to Purple City. If our ambitions align, then I don't see a reason to hate any of you."

Otiosus: "Pragmatic now, are we? Do you at least regret murdering that one family?"

Tristan: "In a way. I now know it was a wasted effort."

Otiosus raised a brow.

Otiosus: "And what does Purple City think about what you did? Or about what Iratus did to set you free?"

Tristan: "Depends who you ask. I'm surprised how many people see your leader in a positive light. But I've always said—it wasn't virtue that saved me. It was fate. That's just how this story was meant to go."

Otiosus: "You know, I never thought much about what happens to people who end up in the Nexus Prime. Never saw it as divine or hellish—until I heard you talk. There's no story here. No destiny."

Tristan: "And what would you know about the Nexus Prime?"

Otiosus: "Oof. I'll let Iratus explain—when you're all ready to listen."

Iratus had been eavesdropping as best he could, but his focus shifted when Salvos stepped up beside him.

Salvos: "Iratus, a guest wishes to speak with you, sir."

---

Chapter 1002

A man with bronze-olive skin and salt-and-pepper black hair approached Iratus. His deep brown eyes held a steady wisdom, and his attire was a striking mix of royal regalia and a formal suit. Most notable was the large golden crown resting on his head—noticeably bigger than Iratus's.

Rimush stepped in quickly, acting as translator.

Rimush: "May I present King Manishtushu Rezaei. He is the leader of the Crowns."

Manishtushu: "Greetings, Iratus. I came over because I saw your crown and figured you might be in a similar boat to me."

Rimush translated smoothly between the two leaders.

Iratus: "You found a small fortification, and people started showing up asking to live within your walls. Then you fought off a bunch of monsters and warlords before taking a golden crown from a band of blood-sacrificing zealots who worshipped the literal embodiment of pride?"

He said it completely straight-faced, without a trace of sarcasm. That alone made Manishtushu burst into laughter.

Manishtushu: "Well… something similar."

Iratus: "Manishtushu, let me introduce you to my contract partner or wife I beleive you Earthen people say, Victoria."

Victoria: "Sir."

Manishtushu: "Ah, what a lovely wife you have Iratus."

Iratus: "Thank you. So, do tell me of your exploits for your crown."

Manishtushu: "Ah, my crown was given to me by a vote and a Catholic priest of old performed the whole coronation ceremony. Were you crowned by a priest too?"

Iratus: "Yes, actually."

He waved a hand toward Deficio, who was currently deep in conversation with various Earth priests.

Manishtushu: "Amazing. Then I suppose you're a monarch too?"

Iratus: "In a way, though I'm not to keen on being a king. My planet eventually moved away from monarchy. I wear the crown now only out of necessity."

Manishtushu: "I'd say the same, but I think kingship is the natural form of leadership."

Iratus: "I understand the need for a lordly role, especially when democracy's weaknesses show. But one vision—or even a small group—can't see what the whole can."

Eventually, the two kings, along with Rimush and Victoria, made their way to the snack table. Everyone respectfully stepped aside for the royals.

Manishtushu: "I've never seen democracy work. Only watched it be used, abused, and twisted into endless conflict—both foreign and domestic."

Iratus: "Well, it worked for my planet."

He kept his tone calm and respectful.

Manishtushu: "Maybe your people are just built different?"

And so was this king.

---

Chapter 1003

Victoria spoke up.

Victoria: "Monarchy, democracy—they all failed my people. From kings came kleptocracy, and from democracy, mob rule. To be fair, there has never been a stable form of rule—just a cycle: the founders of great nations followed by their vile descendants ruining it all."

Manishtushu: "On Earth, we often say history repeats itself. I'd say your planet is a prime example."

Victoria: "Unfortunately."

Manishtushu: "So, I've been meaning to ask. We may know little of Lionhearth, but it's said your village allows for multiple wives. What do you say to that, Iratus?"

Iratus wasn't pleased—he saw that cultural difference as the biggest point of friction between Lionhearth and Purple City.

Iratus: "The Nexus Prime brings people from all over space and time. Every person you meet will carry a completely different set of cultural views. We've had little trouble adapting to these differences. People can live how they like. If it clashes with our values, families can handle that—or they can move to another part of Lionhearth. There are several nearby settlements that all work together and still call themselves part of Lionhearth."

Manishtushu: "From my world, any deviation from the national culture would cause chaos. I suspect the same will happen to your settlement if you allow such differing views to coexist."

Iratus took a sip of water before responding.

Iratus: "Multiple cultures never harmed my nation back on my planet—because the multiculturalism we practiced still upheld the guiding light of God and country."

Manishtushu rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

Iratus: "The many different peoples brought a variety of cultures and ideas, which only made us stronger. I will admit, cultures that worked against the nation's ideals were not tolerated—those who undermined society were made to understand that such behavior wasn't allowed. But as long as we see ourselves as one people first, we can move forward and find ways to deal with perspectives that differ from ours."

Manishtushu: "I'm not against others. I was born Iranian, but I immigrated to a place called the United States. It was a nation of many immigrants—but in my time, everyone had to become American before they could truly settle in. The problem was, that unity started to fracture. Conflicting cultural views caused real chaos. People died because of it."

The conversation continued, but eventually the topic of cultural differences was put to rest, and the three moved on to a new subject.

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Chapter 1004

Manishtushu: "I hope Lionhearth will succeed where Earth failed when it comes to differing cultural views. But onto other matters—would you say your people's future is secure? Does everyone have heirs?"

Iratus smiled.

Iratus: "Yes. Lionhearth has been successfully bearing children for five years now. My eldest children are five years old."

Manishtushu: "Astonishing! You're so far ahead of us in that regard. We are commanded by God to be fruitful and multiply, but we're progressing slowly. And here you are—with how many children?"

Iratus paused. He decided to count only Victoria's children, not wanting to reveal his multiple marriages—especially not to someone from Purple City.

Iratus: "Four... and counting."

Manishtushu: "That's wonderful. I can only hope I reach that many in my lifetime."

Iratus: "Second lifetime."

Manishtushu: "Excuse me?"

Iratus: "Uh, the Nexus Prime. You do know that everyone summoned here has already died, right?"

Manishtushu: "I… no. In fact, only a handful of us even know this is a space station. We've never figured out how to explain it to the people—it's too alien to accept. Are you certain we're all dead?"

Iratus nodded.

Iratus: "I've spoken with someone from the outside and with a native of the Nexus. Turns out, souls are just science."

Both the king and the translator took a few moments to collect themselves after hearing that.

Iratus: "I'll explain more during the actual meeting."

Manishtushu: "Right... right. Listen, I have to get my notes together—I'm already late, actually. But it's been good speaking with a fellow king."

Iratus: "It was my honor, King Manishtushu."

Once the king departed, Iratus waited for the workers to refill the snack table. When he spotted some chicken stuffed into a piece of bread, he reached for it.

Rimush, still nearby, spoke up.

Rimush: "May I present President Helena Gantz, leader of the Councilors."

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Chapter 1005

Helena: "Doesn't your species have trouble with bread?"

Rimush was again translating back and forth.

Iratus: "Yes, but our diet is hardy enough that we can handle a full day of eating bread, just not two days in a row. This won't be a problem for me."

Helena: "Ah. I love learning new things about you aliens. You don't take offense to being called that?"

Iratus: "I don't think so."

Victoria: "Good day to you, my lady."

Helena: "Oh, how sweet. Are you this man's husband?"

Victoria (rubbing her pregnant belly): "I sure am. What can we do for you, madam?"

Helena: "Well, I saw Manishtushu over here speaking with someone, and he doesn't talk to just anyone. So I assumed you were Iratus Lionheart."

Iratus nodded.

Iratus: "And this is my contracted—wife, if that helps—Victoria, Mother of House Lionheart."

Helena (playfully): "Only a mother? Not queen?"

Victoria: "It's a cultural thing. But to be the Mother of a House is to be the mother. I do rule alongside my husband; I simply took the role of household leadership rather than lordly duties."

Helena: "Ah, but you make decrees with your husband?"

Victoria: "We talk things over and decide what's best—so in a way, yes."

Iratus: "And I'm thankful for her part in taking care of Lionhearth."

The three chuckled and enjoyed a few snacks from the table before continuing their conversation.

Helena: "I hope I'm not bothering any of you with my questions. It's just that it's been so hard trying to keep people united."

Iratus: "We're good. But is Purple City having problems?"

By now, the four of them were wandering around aimlessly as they talked.

Helena: "We may call it Purple City, but only the public square really fits the name. Truth is, in these past few months, we've been tearing ourselves apart. We're really three separate tribes now, forced to live together in the only place that offers safety."

Iratus: "There are a number of settlements near Lionhearth. Perhaps moving on from this place is for the best?"

The human woman gave a short laugh.

Helena: "Each faction has its own reasons for staying. The Councilors, for example—we have our own way of running things. It may not be like yours or anyone else's, but it's our way of life."

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Chapter 1006

Helena: "Back to what I was saying—it's been hard to unify people here because of how different everyone is. The Crowns have this old-style outlook on life. For example, there was a woman who acted as the only law enforcement officer after Purple City underwent the revolution. Manishtushu gave her a medal of heroism, but then said, ‘May this brave girl now return to her rightful place—among children and hearth, not bullets and fire.' She was humiliated."

Iratus: "Sure, that's kind of rude, but there's nothing wrong with children and hearth."

Victoria: "I'll say."

Helena: "It's not just that. He's put a caste system in place and granted nobility to certain families. It's one thing to uplift people through merit, but you can't inherit greatness like that."

Iratus: "Okay, the caste system is terrible—but it's not inherently evil or useless. It's a tool like any other."

Helena: "My problem is that there are people who'd rather be told their place and never strive for better. I offer freedom of choice and equality, but so many can't handle equality. It's too much work, too much responsibility."

Victoria: "A sad fate for many. But you can't force people to leave what makes them comfortable."

Helena's expression softened with a touch of sadness before she put her smile back on.

Helena: "If I can ask—does Lionhearth believe in equality, or in proper roles like the Crowns?"

Iratus: "I'd say we value freedom more than equality. Everyone is free to make what they will of themselves—but we treat everyone as equally as possible. Even though I wear a crown, I still see myself as a regular person first."

Helena: "That sounds great. You see, I've been defending the honor of Lionhearth from here."

Victoria raised an eyebrow while Iratus tilted his head slightly.

Helena: "When the reports came in—first saying our people attacked yours unprovoked—it was my faction that tried to punish the scout team. When Tristan and eventually Joe returned after being rescued by you, it was my faction that wanted to extend a hand of friendship. But the other factions only had bad things to say. If you're a defender of justice and equality, I'm fully prepared to form an alliance with you."

Iratus: "Let me hear the others' defense first. After the meeting today, I'll decide how I wish to deal with Purple City and its factions."

Helena nodded—just as a secretary-looking person stepped in and whispered in her ear.

Helena: "Excuse me, I have others to speak with before the meeting."

Iratus: "All good, Lady President."

Victoria: "Thank you for chatting with us."

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Chapter 1007

Iratus and Victoria were chatting about the two people they had just met.

Victoria: "I think she was insulted by how I chose to define myself as a mother."

Iratus: "And I fear Manishtushu is too similar to the old monarchs of my world. Those two certainly aren't perfect, but they hardly seem like the kind of people who would declare war on us."

Both of them froze as their heads slowly turned toward a man speaking in a harsh tone in his own language. Iratus didn't need a translator to tell it wasn't friendly—his body language was hostile, and worse, Iratus recognized him. Hammurabi, the man who had killed Venatio.

Iratus quickly looked around for Rimush, but didn't see him anywhere.

Thankfully, Deficio stepped in and began speaking to the human. Iratus watched carefully as the priest's tone shifted—from pleasant, to amused, to that sharp, angry smile that meant he was deeply displeased. After a few tense moments, Deficio turned and walked over to Iratus.

Deficio: "I think we have a serious problem."

Iratus: "In what way?"

As the human followed behind, Deficio let out a slow sigh.

Deficio: "May I present the leader of the third faction here—Hammurabi, President of the People."

Iratus: "Hello again, Hammurabi."

Deficio took on the role of translator.

Hammurabi: "Ah yes, the mouse man. How has our supreme city been treating you?"

Iratus: "Well, it's not dilapidated like some of the other cities summoned to Nexus Prime, so there's that."

Hammurabi: "I see you've already met the problem people of Purple City—those fools trying to bring back monarchy, and the communist scum."

Iratus and Victoria exchanged nervous chuckles.

Iratus: "Those are some strong words about your fellow city leaders."

Hammurabi: "Do you not see their authoritarian ways?"

Victoria: "We've barely had a full conversation with either of the other faction leaders."

Iratus: "I understand the distaste for monarchy—my planet moved beyond it a long time ago. I wear this crown to represent my home and the people who chose to live there."

Victoria: "As for the Councilors, you'll have to elaborate further."

Hammurabi seemed a bit less aggressive now, his posture relaxing slightly.

Hammurabi: "Purple City was thriving—wealth pouring in, people finally building something real. Then the Councilors stepped in, hammering down anyone who rose too far, stopping families from creating dynasties of greatness. According to them, people holding all the resources is evil or something—ruined her world, Helena said. But I'm from Earth too, same time period, and I know that kind of talk. That's communist rhetoric. Commies always hated success—always jealous of the prosperous."

Iratus: "I'm only loosely familiar with communism… but I do agree that people shouldn't be stripped of what they've earned just because they've succeeded through merit."

Hammurabi: "Exactly! At least you're not completely dumb—for a beast."

Iratus: "Gee, thanks." He said it with thick sarcasm.

Hammurabi: "You're welcome."

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Chapter 1008

Hammurabi: "With everyone under a authoratarian thumb, someone had to take up the rage of the common people."

Iratus: "Helena seemed like she was elected."

Hammurabi: "Her faction tried to swindle people out of their right to vote. You had to be loyal to the party to vote in THEIR election and because of that dumpster fire of an election, everyone else just left and formed the Crowns. Democracy dies and it gives way to monarchy is essintially what happened. I think when the people left both factions, enough people that the other rulers have to make deals and invite me to these things is proof enough that I am the only one here who has the vote of the people."

Victoria: "If everyone had a fair vote, you'd be elected?"

Hammurabi: "Numbers don't lie. Not only that, but my faction, my tribe has the most adult population in it."

Iratus: "I see. There is logic in what you say. What even are your plans now that you have risen to power?"

Hammurabi: "Unfortunitly, there is nothing I can do. I hate the thought of heriditary rule, but if that's what the Crowns want, I can't do much about it and even if I did, the Councilors would aid in their defense with the same being true if I went after them or one of the other two factions went after me. Its a deadlock."

Iratus: "God, I hope I'm not here to be a tiebreaker."

Hammurabi: "Your here because you are an unknown. The Crowns want nothing to do with verman and beasts, while the Council sees anything not under their thumb as rouge and dangerous. As for the People, trade is fair enough."

Iratus: "Am I just trading with your people?"

Hammurabi: "No, those are free traders. Technically part of my group, but we embrace free trade here. The other two would never accept goods from another settlement without a thick layer of treaties and documentry that they control all of. It is why only free traders bring in the trade because their own people are not allowed to trade, only the government is."

There were guest seats around and the four people sat down to continue the conversation. It was clear that Hammurabi never intended to talk for this long.

Iratus: "That is quite extreme or something, hard to tell because this is the time of making settlements then being a nation."

Hammurabi: "What did you talk about with the others, if I may ask?"

Iratus: "Manishtushu wanted to learn more about our culture, asked about my family and the people of Lionhearth. He also shared some of his viewpoints and I pushed back. Things like proper places for people does not make sense to me when it if my belief people use their freedom to make themselves. Even without a society, one does not need it for, purpose, or satisfaction. One only needs God."

Hammurabi: "If one had to choose freedom or happiness, it sounds like we agree on freedom first."

Victoria: "We do. Now for Helena. She just seems to really want equality for all and is really open to work with Lionhearth."

Hammurabi: "She can't see that some people are just better then others."

Iratus: "Some people are born stronger than others, some people are born smarter than others, ect. I'm not against her equality for all, but I think equality in oppitunity and in our hearts is far more realistic and I'm willing to say that I think you'd agree."

Hammurabi: "You'd say correctly."

Iratus: "We seem to have a lot in common, I don't see why our two tribes can't work together."

The human stood up as people were starting to either leave or enter the main chamber.

Hammurabi: "Because you are not like us, culture or species."

And then he left .

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Chapter 1009

Iratus felt as if a dagger had pierced his heart—just as sharp and real as any blade.

Iratus: "I don't understand. Where I come from, when you agree on a future, you build it—with those who share in that vision."

Victoria: "I could've sworn your planet had bigotry… and intolerance toward those who were different."

Iratus: "Not when I was born. None at all. In ancient times, even when the mousefolk were enslaved, I don't remember ever reading anything like this in the history books."

Rimush finally returned.

Rimush: "Sorry, sorry. By the time I caught up with the conversation, you already had a translator."

Iratus: "I'm fine. Where's everyone going?"

Rimush: "To sulk that they didn't get a chance to speak with King Iratus Lionheart. But aside from the disappointed, we're ready to receive you now. As you've likely noticed, Purple City is… greatly divided. Gathering leaders from such radically different tribes isn't easy—and in hindsight, we really should've waited longer to organize all of this. We were too hasty in our eagerness to meet you."

Iratus: "If it's time for a proper meeting with Purple City's rulers, then let's go."

Rimush: "One more thing. This is a meeting for heads of state, in a manner of speaking. You may bring your holy man—each leader will have theirs present—but your wife and guards will need to wait outside."

Iratus glanced ahead and saw a line of people already standing against the door. Their posture and proximity to each leader made it clear—they were the entourages, waiting.

He gave Victoria a reassuring nod, then allowed himself to be led into the chamber.

Inside, a modest round table had been set up.

To his left sat Helena.
To his right, Manishtushu.
And between them—at the center—was Hammurabi.

Seated off to the side of each were their respective priests. Each appeared to follow the same religion, or at least the same sect. Hammurabi, however, had no such spiritual advisor with him. He sat alone.

Rimush was the only other person in the room, now serving officially as translator.

After formal introductions were made, the true meeting of Purple City's rulers began.

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Chapter 1010

Manishtushu: "I'll start the conversation. Lionhearth—what is it, and what are its goals for the future?"

Iratus: "Lionhearth is a settlement six years in the making. It was just my home once, but people kept arriving—seeking safety, seeking mutual defense. It grew faster than I could control, and eventually… the people started calling me king."

He glanced around the table. Manishtushu looked pleased. Helena wore a slight frown. Hammurabi remained neutral. Their reactions were expected.

Iratus: "For a long time, our only goal was survival. But now that we no longer fear tomorrow, we want more. We want to build a city—a civilization."

For a moment, Iratus reflected inward. He'd never thought far into the future—because for so long, the future didn't matter. Life had been about making it to the next day. But now, with that burden lessened, with the present finally stable, his thoughts turned forward. What did he want?

Civilization. He wanted what his homeworld once had. A place not just of safety, but of purpose.

Iratus: "The ocean is near. We'll build ships—sail the coast, maybe even the world. Civilization wasn't possible in the Nexus Prime… but after surviving the worst it had to throw at us, we've broken through. We can grow. And I hope this world becomes a world of nations, of people, not in decline—but in growth."

He looked again at the three rulers.

Manishtushu looked as if he might tear up—Iratus's dream clearly meant something to him.
Helena was quiet, thoughtful—already planning, perhaps.
Hammurabi's expression remained neutral, but Iratus caught a flicker of discomfort. Just a flash. His best guess? The idea of opening the world and allowing new civilizations to rise didn't sit well with him.

Iratus: "My turn. What is Purple City? And what are your goals for the future?"

Helena spoke first.

Helena: "Purple City is still trying to figure out what we are. But we do have three solid visions for the future. The Councilors want everyone united—treated fairly, ruled fairly. We want to see new settlements rise around us. We believe in spreading ideas that end tyranny and oppression."

Iratus stole a quick glance at the other two. There was unmistakable distaste in their eyes. Whatever their past dealings with Helena had been, her words clearly rang hollow to them.

Manishtushu: "Purple City is indeed divided. The Crowns will form a nation of our own once our numbers grow. We'll move forward—living our best lives each day, and worshiping God. That is the true purpose of people: to build society, fulfill their proper lot, and glorify God. Other nations are free to live near us—peacefully."

Helena: "You can't be serious. More god talk? Give it a rest already."

Hammurabi: "For once, I agree. We didn't come here to hear sermons or talk of reinstituting theocracy."

Iratus let out a small sigh. He'd once been a nobody—now somehow a monarch. And here, before him, were three rulers, supposedly representing their tribes… already devolving into bickering like common folk.

Hammurabi: "My turn. Purple City is a nation of humans and human-likes. It will become the greatest nation on the planet. The future is already written—wealth and prosperity for Purple City and all its people. We'll be the jewel of civilization, drawing in freedom-seekers and lovers of actual democracy to help us build something glorious."

Iratus gave a mental sigh. The meeting had barely begun, and already he understood the kind of people he was dealing with.

---

EPISODE 101: END

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Episode 101 End Character Sheet
Name: Iratus Lionheart
Species: Mousefolk
Age: 20
Coverings: blonde fur, white gambeson (many repairs, some leather patchwork), leather gloves, tactical vest, tailorcraft backpack, leather plate helmet, delicate gold chain with a small pendant shaped like a lion's glare, flashlight, bronze breastplate, bronze full arm guards, bronze shin guards
Weapons: long sword, short sword, hammer, 3 dagger
Equipment: belt, belt bag, water skin, leathercraft backpack

Wounds: None

Armory: 12 short swords, 2 knifes, 7 daggers, 12 metal spears, 1 long sword, semi-automatic rifle, 4 hunting traps, 18 snares, 17 backpacks, 2 katanas, crossbow, bolt-action rifle
Aestus: gambeson, bronze breastplate, leather helmet, metal spear, 2 knives, short sword, bronze long sword.
Victoria: bronze breastplate, gambeson, leather helmet, metal spear, short sword, crossbow, 2 daggers, flashlight
Resonanita: steel breastplate, gambeson, metal helmet, metal spear, short sword, 1 knife, compound bow, flashlight
Ignis: bronze breastplate, gambeson, leather helmet, metal spear, crowbar, 1 knife

Important Treasure: a tarnished silver brooch, a small ornamental figurine, a few antfolk tapestries, some antfolk art, bronze lantern, bronze idol, some jeweled trinkets, iron lantern, silver lantern, gold crown with large sapphire

Lionhearth -
Home Base, Tower: Large Storage Area (many crates, clay pots, and wooden chests), Basic Workshop Area (lots of tools, woodcarving tools, glue, sandpaper), Kitchen Area (many tools, many cutlery items, pots&pans, makeshift grill, microwave), Library, Armory, Infirmary Room (surgery tools, first aid kit, plenty of medicine and equipment), Children's Quarters, Master Bedroom (proper bedding, sensual antfolk sculpture), Six Bedrooms (proper bedding), four portable solar panels, outside house area

Outside Base: Butchering Hut (modern butchery kit, smoking rack), Tannery Hut, Underground Storage Area, Garden Area (fenced in), Tool Shed, Wooden Wall, Second Wooden Wall, 9 Small Cabin, 14 Large Cabin, 2 Gravestones, Rabbit Hutches, Several Electrical Lights, Wooden House (Astrid), Kitchen Building, Guest House, Patchwork Garage (1 Humvee), Simple Dock, Watchtower, Schoolhouse, Compost Area, Small Workshop Hut, various private gardens, various small nimal farms

Books: 5 woodworking books, weathered leather-bound journal, 2 war game booklet, sketch book (from warband), 2 sketch books, Bathhouse Reviewers (entire 80 book series), playing cards, Fractura's Notes, Tempestas's Notes, 18 survival guides, 5 technical manuals, 68 fiction novels, 12 encyclopedias, 5 dictionaries, 28 cookbooks, 4 gardening guides, 4 crafting books, 30 educational textbooks, 6 religious texts, 10 diaries, 18 children's books, Ever Dark RPG, 15 different tabletop games

Year 6, Day 83

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TOWER FOLK:
Iratus of House Lionheart
mouse, male, blonde fur, blonde hair, gold eyes, 6'9, age: 20, b day: 350
-
Victoria Mother of House Lionheart
raccoon, female, gray fur, black hair, brown eyes, 6'6, age: 20, b day: 5, (preg 62)
-
Aestus of clan Riversinger
otter, female, red fur, red hair, blue eyes, 6'4, age: 19, b day: 99
-
Ignis Yang
red panda, female, reddish-brown/white fur, black hair, golden eyes, 6'7, age: 20, b day: 344, (preg 87)
-
Resonantia Diamond Heart Steel
shark, female, blue-gray hue skin, white hair, blue eyes, 6'8, age: 20, b day: 2
---

CHILDREN:
Negligere Lionheart
shark, male, steel gray skin, white hair, gold eyes, age: 5, b day: 2
-
Ruina Lionheart
otter, female, orange fur, vibrant orange hair, blue eyes, age: 5, b day: 330
-
Gula Lionheart
red panda, male, brown fur, dark brown hair, gold eyes, age: 5, b day: 340
-
Tenacitas Lionheart
raccoon, female, silver fur, dark blonde hair, amber eyes, age: 5, b day: 345

Frustra Lionheart
raccoon, male, gray fur, blonde hair, gold eyes, age: 4, b day: 338

Despero Lionheart
shark, male, blue-gray skin, blonde hair, gold eyes, age: 3, b day: 249

Tempestas
otter, male, white fur, black hair, gold eyes, age: 2, b day: 272

Nebula
otter, female, blonde fur, blonde hair, blue eyes, age: 2, b day: 272

Ventus Lionheart
red panda, female, reddish-brown and white fur, blonde-black gradient hair, gold with a hint of silver eyes, age: 3, b day: 17

Lignum Lionheart
red panda, male, fur of reddish-brown with golden-blonde highlights, especially around chest, muzzle, and ears, gold-blonde hair, amber-gold eyes, age: 3, b day: 17

Constantia Lionheart
raccoon, female, fur is pale gray with soft gold undertones, hair is light brown with streaks of black, eyes are bright gold with brown flecks, age: 2, b day: 118

Justus Lionheart
raccoon, male, fur is silver-gray with darker banding at the tail, hair is Dark blonde, slightly curly, amber-gold eyes, age: 2, b day: 118

Vindicta Lionheart
shark, female, dark steel blue skin with a pearly undertone, blonde hair almost white at the tips, blue eyes with golden rings around the iris, age: 1, b day: 159

Patientia Lionheart
shark, female, soft gray-blue skin with subtle mottling around the shoulders and back, white hair, gold eyes, age: 1, b day: 159

Pudor Lionheart
otter, female, copper-red fur, golden-red hair, blue eyes, age: 1, b day: 269
---

NEIGHBORS:
Echo
shark, male, gray skin with a white underbelly, black hair, black eyes, 6'8, age: 44, b day: 142

Resolutio
goat, female, black fur, black hair, blue eyes, 7'0, age: 54, b day: 13

Dolor
hyena, male, rich brown fur, black hair, gold eyes, 5'1, age: 13, b day: 301

Diffido
mouse, male, black fur, black hair, brown eyes, 5'4, age: 15, b day: 145

Pusillanimitas of House Redtide
lion, female, tan fur, blonde hair, gold eyes, 6'8, age: 20, b day: 1

Communiquer Zircon Beaumont
rabbit, female, soft gray with white patches around the nose and underbelly, chestnut brown hair, Amber-gold eyes, 6'7, age: 29, b day: 88

Sagitta Cloud Wake
wolf, male, dark charcoal with silver streaks around the muzzle and tail tipfur, steel gray hair, ice blue eyes, 6'9, age: 45, b day: 33

Parabula of Arcanum Vitae
goat, male, sandy beige with dark brown patches along his limbs, black hair, bright green eyes, 6'7, age: 33, b day: 55

7 others: a female tanuki, a male hyena, a female raccoon, and 4 others.
---

WINTER WINDS CLAN:
Studium of Winter Winds
fox, male, gray fur, black hair, blue eyes, 6'4, age: 17, b day: 190

Fuligo Leaf Shadow
otter, female, black fur, blonde hair, blue eyes, 6'2, age: 17, b day: 245

Bellum of House War Knuckles
cheetah, female, blonde fur with black spots, blonde hair, blue eyes, 6'5, age 18, b day: 91
-
Ambitiosus of Winter Winds
cheetah, male, blonde fur with black spots, black hair, blue eyes, age 3, b day: 322

Vertex of Winter Winds
otter, female, gray fur, black hair, blue eyes, age 2, b day: 360

Virtus of Winter Winds
cheetah, male, sandy gold fur with dense black spotting, black streaked with blonde hair, blue eyes, age 1, b day: 162

Venatio of Winter Winds
otter, male, charcoal black fur with silvery undertones around the chest and face, blonde hair, blue eyes, age 1, b day: 207
Year 4, Day 210

---

DARK SKY FAMILY:
Salvos Dark Sky
wolf, male, black fur, white hair, copper eyes, 6'8, age 31, b day: 66

Leitmotif Schlange
snake, female, yellow and red scales, naga bodied, gold eyes, age 28, b day: 229
-
Ostinato Dark Sky
snake, male, black and red scales, white hair, bipedal, gold eyes, age 3, b day: 234

Discordia Dark Sky
snake, female, scales are crimson with deep onyx patterning along back and limbs, white hair, bipedal, bright gold eyes, age 1, b day: 6

Caligo Dark Sky
snake, male, scales are dusky gold with shadowy undertones, short, black hair with hints of auburn, bipedal, copper-red eyes, age 1, b day: 6
---

OCULI ACUTI FAMILY
Confodere Oculi Acuti
hyena, male, dark brown fur, black hair, gold eyes, 6'9, age 30, b day: 239

Liora Woodleaf
deer, female, light brown with white spots, blonde hair, hazel eyes, 5'9, age: 29, b day 323, (preg 64)

Sutura Vigilia Nocturna
hyena, female, brownish-blonde fur with black spots, gold hair, gold eyes, 6'8, age: 22, b day: 364
-
Candela Woodleaf-Oculi
deer, female, fur is tawny beige with faint white spots that form a flame-like pattern across her back, hair is black with golden highlights, unusually thick and slightly wavy, amber-hazel eyes, age 2, b day 168

Caelum Woodleaf-Oculi
deer, male, fur is chestnut with darker brown shoulders and legs, with only faint spotting, hair is blonde with streaks of dark brown near the roots, gold eyes, age 2, b day 168

Ferox Vigilia Nocturna
hyena, male, dark sable-brown fur with dense black spotting, gold hair, gold eyes, age: 1, b day: 219
---

HOT WAVES AND BRASSMOON FAMILY
Odorem of Hot Waves
fox, male, red fur, red hair, blue eyes, 6'8, age: 27, b day: 86

Fraus of House Brassmoon
feline, female, bright gray, white underbelly fur, white hair, blue eyes, 6'7, age: 20, b day: 90, (preg 149)
-
Vana Hotbrass
feline, female, pale silver-gray fur with a subtle red-orange tint across the back and cheeks, deep auburn-red hair, blue eyes, age: 1, b day: 174
---

HOT WAVES AND WHITE SKY FAMILY
Inlecebra of Hot Waves
fox, male, red fur, red hair, blue eyes, 6'8, age: 29, b day: 343

Arcus of White Sky 
fox, female, slightly dark brown fur, slightly dark brown hair, blue eyes, 6'5, age: 22, b day: 326
-
Excelsa Hotsky
fox, female, deep reddish-brown fur with subtle orange undertone, dark auburn hair, blue eyes, age: 1, b day: 235

Fidelis Hotsky
fox, male, mahogany brown fur with red-tinged highlights and darker markings along the shoulders, deep red hair, blue eyes, age: 1, b day: 235

---

HOUSE OWLEYE
Otiosus of House Owleye
mouse, male, dark gray fur, dark gray hair, blue eyes, 6'8, age: 25, b day: 105

Bai Xue
fluff dragon, female, white fur, white hair, green eyes, 7'1, age: 28, b day: 309

Astrid Kuivuus
nixman, female, slightly purple skin, black hair, blue eyes, 6'0, age: 24, b day: 71
-
Tranquilla Owleye
fluff dragon, female, white fur with light silver-gray patterning along her back and neck, pale silver hair with white streaks, deep green eyes, age: 1, b day: 246

Eirik Kuivuus
nixman, male, pale lavender skin, black hair, blue eyes, age: 1, b day: 81
---

LOST FIRE
Certamen of the Lost Quickness
raccoon, male, dark gray fur, black hair, blue eyes, 6'9, age: 27, b day: 76

Ardens Ignifera
redpanda, female, red fur, black hair, gold eyes, 6'5, age: 24, b day: 187
-
Fulgora Lost Fire
redpanda, female, fur is deep reddish-orange with charcoal-gray markings on the arms and legs; tail is ringed with darker red and slate-gray stripes, black hair, gold eyes, age: 1, b day: 251
---

MALONDO FAMILY
Laedere Malondo
hyena, male, fur is sandy beige with darker brown spots and a stripe down spine, white hair, orange-gold eyes, 6'4, age: 20, b day: 22

Praevalidum
ant, female, blackish-brown chitin, dark gray skin, brown hair, green eyes, 6'5, age: 23, b day: 77
-
Ferrox Malondo
ant, male, deep brown-black chitin with subtle sandy undertones on the limbs and thorax, white hair, green eyes, age: 1, b day: 3
---

RENNICK FAMILY
Collaboratio Diamond Rennick
rabbit, male, fur is pale cream with soft gray ears and speckling along the shoulders, orange hair, hazel eyes, 6'11, age: 24, b day: 284

Vesper Red Queen
moth, female, gray fur, silver hair, brown eyes, 6'4, age: 22, b day: 37
-
Aurora Diamond Rennick
moth, female, soft silvery-gray fur with creamy undertones around the cheeks, forearms, and tail base; subtle pale speckling across her shoulders, fluffy orange-tinged hair, brown eyes, age: 1, b day: 65
---

(farm)
UMBRA OCEAN FAMILY:
Procella Ocean Drinker
weasel, female, blonde fur, black hair, green eyes, 6'5, age 26, b day: 207

Iter of Sanguinem Umbra
goat, male, white fur, blonde hair, brown eyes, 6'7, age 23, b day: 334
-
Bothynus Umbra Ocean
weasel, female, blonde fur, blonde hair, brown eyes, age 2, b day: 351

Lamentia Umbra Ocean
weasel, female, creamy golden-blonde fur with subtle white patches around the shoulders and chest, black hair, olive green eyes with a golden ring around the iris, age 1, b day: 210
---

(farm)
Levi Ackerman
nixman, male, light purple skin, white hair, blue eyes, 6'1, age: 26, b day: 303
---

(farm)
THE COBALTS:
Commercium Jade Blue Cobalt
rabbit, male, white fur, black hair, gray eyes, 6'8, age: 29, b day: 221

Abrasione
hyena, female, tan fur with black spots, blonde hair, gold eyes, 6'5, age: 24, b day: 4
-
Kuxatura Jade Blue Cobalt
hyena, male, tan fur, black hair, gold eyes, age: 5, b day: 284

Vulnera Jade Blue Cobalt
hyena, male, white with black spots fur, black hair with some golden strands, gray eyes, age: 2, b day: 189

Ruptura Jade Blue Cobalt
hyena, male, pale tan fur, blonde hair, gold eyes, age: 2, b day: 189
---

LAST MISTAKE
Deficio
lion, male, gray fur, rich gray hair, green eyes, 6'6, age: 50, b day: 111

Malignitas of House Brokensand
feline, male, light black fur, light black hair, brown eyes (single eye), 6'7, age 33, b day: 343

Disputatio Sapphire Halberd 
rabbit, male, fur is tawny tan with salt-and-pepper flecks along his back and cheeks, hair is dusty brown with streaks of white at the temples, green eyes, 6'5, age: 58, b day: 183

And 8 others.
---

(Last Mistake)
Clan Sootdrinker:
Pulvis of Clan Sootdrinker
otter, male, dark‑brown fur, dark-brown hair, blue eyes, 6'7, age: 35, b day: 180

Caedes, Mother of Clan Sootdrinker
mouse, male, black fur, white hair, green eyes, 6'5, age: 27, b day: 105
-
Inertia Sootdrinker
mouse, female, jet black fur, silvery white hair, deep blue-green eyes, age: 2, b day: 315

Fumus Sootdrinker
mouse, male, smoky gray-brown fur that is darker around the limbs and tail, white streaked with faint brown undertones hair, pale blue eyes, age: 2, b day: 315