Becoming a Myth

Becoming a Myth happens very slowly at first, and then all at once.

Narrative sparks need hosts who are suitable for them. In the months before being drawn into their first Narrative, life will become interesting for the mortal. Strange occurrences, feelings of deja vu, and uncanny coincidences all test and push the mortal to see if they have a sympathetic nature for the legend. This is not done consciously by the legend or narrative spark, as legends have no consciousness without a mortal to give them some. It is like a river searching for the easiest path to the sea. If a person is a good fit for a certain legend, they will begin to be drawn into the narrative, with small strange occurrences manoeuvring them into position physically, and subtle pieces of symbolism subconsciously preparing them for their legend.

These strange occurrences can take place over weeks or months before the first becoming, and take many forms. All are bizarre coincidences, but still within the realm of the possible.

All first becomings happen in the opening arc of a Narrative, often with a group of other mortals similarly drawn into the story. The exact circumstances vary from Myth to Myth, but all will involve an uncontrolled manifestation of some of their new powers, paired with a sudden familiarity with the legend they now embody. This can be an emotional experience dominated by the emotions of the legend, or it may feel like a remembering of past glories. Some becomings can be traumatic, others revelatory. Some feel like finding a part of yourself that was always missing, while others may feel invasive and threatening. This will depend on the nature of the Myth, as well as the mortal person’s disposition.

A becoming is a physical manifestation as much as it is an internal one. Legendary powers will manifest in response to the events of the Narrative. A Myth may change form, suddenly and instinctively know how to use magic, find a family heirloom is a powerful magic item, or meet an otherworldly companion who shows them the ropes. However powers show themselves, they will have no drawbacks or consequences. This first blooming of a Myth’s powers is unfettered and potent.

This typically happens at the start of a Narrative, in an opening scene. Some event or revelation draws all the players into the story, leading to a chaotic scene in which each player manifests amazing new abilities. The true exploration of these powers takes place as the Narrative progresses.