Pigments of Faith
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In Calika, nearly every tribe has its own distinct beliefs. Some honour the spirits of their ancestors, others revere the forces of nature, and many follow one, a few, or even an entire pantheon of gods; overall there are 7,000 revered deities in Calika. Despite these differences, they all share one deeply ingrained tradition: the spiritual leader of each tribe preserves the tribe’s sacred knowledge directly on their body, using a unique form of tattooing. Colourful pigments are pushed beneath the skin, permanently inscribing the teachings, myths, and rituals of their people.
The extent of these tattoos depends on the complexity of the tribe’s beliefs. For simpler religions, the markings may be limited to a few large symbols on the back. However, for tribes with centuries of accumulated spiritual wisdom, the tattoos can become an intricate tapestry, covering the spiritual leader from head to toe. These sacred tattoos serve as both a record and a guide, allowing leaders to pass down their people’s traditions through generations.
When a spiritual leader passes away, the tribe’s elders gather to revise and redesign the tattoos for their successor. Beliefs may shift over time - some teachings are discarded, while new ideas are integrated. What were once separate images illustrating stories are often woven into complex, abstract patterns that still carry the same meaning, provided one knows how to decipher them. Originally, these tattoos were done in a single colour, but as traditions evolved, new hues were introduced, allowing for greater complexity and deeper symbolism.
Through an unfortunate mix-up and a series of misinterpretations by some overzealous religious leaders, Geertruud Smallbottom unexpectedly found herself on the receiving end of one of these sacred tattoos. Fortunately for her, the ink used fades soon and remains invisible under normal conditions. It only reveals itself under specific circumstances - either when someone with the proper knowledge activates it or, somewhat inconveniently, during days or nights of a full moon.
Though Geertruud may have escaped a lifetime of unsolicited tribal priesthood, she now carries a hidden history on her skin - one that may resurface at the most unpredictable moments.
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by unknown, heavy mod by Tillerz



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