Extras
Basically any extras I might write for the Ancient One, outside of the fics.
“In a remote mountain village, they venerate an unusual deity. What’s that deity’s name, what is unusual about them, and how do they interact with their followers?”
— World Building Prompt on Infinite Stories Discord
We call him the Broken One. If he has another name, it only existed when he was whole; before the world was created, and before one being was torn asunder into two.
The Broken One is only able to manifest to us, his followers, during emotional times that involve true submission and pure love. Unlike his counterpart, the Broken One cannot manifest a mortal form so easily. Outside of those times when the close bonds of submission and love allow him to form, he only appears to us as pure white light. His voice and his words can only be heard by a select few; those whose bonds with their loved ones are particularly strong.
Those who have seen the Broken One describe his features as beautiful and perfect, delicate as an elf's, with flowing black hair and glowing amber eyes. But there are open, bleeding wounds that cover his bare arms and that can be seen through the robe that covers his body. Our people have tried to render aid, but the wounds are impossible to heal.
There are whispers, and rumours, that what was ripped apart could perhaps some day be healed and made whole again. But until that day and until that time, we will protect the wounded spirit of the Broken One. We will protect the wounded spirit of our god.
“Legends often surround important figures in History, such as Kings and Folk Heroes. What's a mythical figure who held political power? Are they well-received or infamous? How do the Legends describe this powerful individual?”
— Worldbuilding Prompt on Infinite Stories
The Ancient One.
A being of immeasurable power, said to be as old as the world itself. For centuries, he has taken on the role of advisor for Kings, using the name Alaric Thorne.
As Headmaster of a prestigous boys' school, the Ancient One has long been able to exert his influence over those who eventually come to power. He pits students against each other, brutally punishing those deemed weaker than the rest. Those who survive their school years, if it can be called survival, look to their former Headmaster for advice and permission. Even as an advisor for Kings, it's apparent he's the power behind the throne...and won't hesitate to brutally punish his former students if they step out of line.
The Ancient One's magic is powerful and insiduous. He whispers inside the minds of people, making them believe that the terrible things they do are their own decisions and desires. Throughout the centuries, he has amassed a great deal of power and influence, feeding on the life force of those he controls and leaving them as lifeless, empty husks.
No one is really certain of the Ancient One's true motivations and ambitions. While he could easily take full control and crush the world in his fist, he appears content to exert his control and influence from the shadows. And under his influence, it's true that the kingdom prospers...but at what cost?