The Harvest Goddess and the Sprites

[theharvestmods]

The Harvest Goddess is the spirit of nature itself. She is a known presence in the world of Cape Beryl, and she certainly exists, with her presence normally marked by the presence of springs that practically bubble with nature and life magic. Goddess Grotto is one of those springs, and the statue there depicts her in the form she appears in, when she appears at all: a pretty and motherly woman with long hair tied in knots and locks, dressed in an airy, flowing gown.

The land around the Goddess's springs is always considered desirable - "blessed" land for a community, especially a more provincial one, to grow on and around. In spite of the general belief in her influence, worship of the Harvest Goddess is only seen notably in such areas - but the local charm it lends them often invites people from neighboring towns and cities to drop by and join in. The Flower Festival and Harvest Festival, for example, are not held in any nearby community outside of Bower Village, but others have taken trips in to take part - and gotten in the habit of coming to the Cape for other special events.

Apart from festivals, respects are traditionally paid to the Goddess with a prayer and an offering dropped into her spring; flowers make especially appropriate offerings, especially blue flowers, but it's said that her favorites are strawberries.

Cape Beryl is unique even among centers of the Harvest Goddess's presence with the prominence of another figure in its legends and customs. Mt. Throne was, after all, named in honor of the Harvest King. A lesser figure than the Goddess in all regions, the Harvest King originated as a farmer and well-loved resident of and contributor to Bower Village in the olden days. He dedicated his thriving farm to the Harvest Goddess, and his worship and treatment of the land had her appreciation and earned him her friendship and the help of the Sprites. It is said that one year, while gathering offerings of Bluemist flowers on the mountain, he found the nesting area of blue birds of the same shade, and began regularly visiting the spot to feed and acquaint himself with them. Eventually, he was able to set the birds flocking over Town Square at the start of a Flower Festival dance - which impressed and touched the Goddess enough that she made up her mind to lift him up and grant him the power to care for and protect the land as her partner. The Egg Festival has its roots in the story, held in preparation for the Harvest Festival, which it is said that the Harvest King founded as a human.

This leaves the Goddess's and King's faithful followers, the Harvest Sprites. Like the Goddess and King, one would be hard-pressed to find anyone who doubts their existence, but they prefer to keep out of sight of normal humans, as if not reminding the people that they are out there tending to the land is somehow keeping a secret. They will happily make allies with anyone who shares their faith just as they did with the Harvest King, however - if you happen to be those allies, you are welcome to their underground den at Sprite Station at any time.