The Coos

Witches

The Coos, a secretive and malevolent coven of witches, embody a dark and complex devotion to both Baba Yaga and The Black Queen. Their practices and beliefs are shrouded in mystery and darkness, as they harness twisted magic and engage in rituals that align with their enigmatic patrons. Here's a deeper look into the nature of the Coos and their connection to Baba Yaga and The Black Queen.

## Devotion to Baba Yaga:

The Coos revere Baba Yaga as their guiding force, seeking to harness her power and mystical knowledge to further their ambitions. They view her as the embodiment of cunning, magic, and the duality of light and darkness. The Coos may interpret her teachings as a call to embrace their own hidden desires, master dark arts, and manipulate the forces of the world to their advantage.

## The Black Queen, Deity of Lust and Death:

The Coos' devotion extends beyond Baba Yaga to The Black Queen, a deity associated with desires that encompass lust, revelry, domination, and death. The Black Queen's influence adds an additional layer of complexity to the coven's practices, driving them to seek power and fulfillment through indulgence in their most primal urges.

## Twisted Magic and Rituals:

The Coos, practitioners of twisted and macabre magic, delve into dark rituals that challenge the boundaries between the arcane and the forbidden. Their sorcery is steeped in malevolence, allowing them to manipulate emotions, dominate the wills of others, and access sources of power that mortals dare not tread upon. These rituals vary in nature, from solemn invocations to depraved acts that resonate with the domains of their unholy patrons.

* **Emotion Manipulation:** The Coos are adept at manipulating the emotions of their victims, sowing discord, fear, and despair wherever they go. Their spells can stir uncontrollable rage, induce paralyzing terror, or plunge individuals into deep and inescapable sorrow. They revel in the emotional turmoil they create, using it to further their sinister goals.
* **Mind Control:** Control over others is a hallmark of The Coos' dark arts. Through their rituals, they can exert dominance over the minds and wills of those unfortunate enough to cross their path. Victims may find themselves compelled to obey The Coos' every command, their autonomy stripped away in a nightmarish dance of puppetry.
* **Forbidden Sources:** The Coos draw power from sources that mortals would shun. Their magic taps into realms and entities that exist beyond the veil of the natural world. These eldritch patrons grant them access to forbidden knowledge, granting insights into ancient and blasphemous secrets that can warp reality itself.
* **Offerings and Invocations**: Rituals performed by The Coos often involve offerings to appease their malevolent patrons. These offerings can range from blood sacrifices to symbolic acts of devotion. Invocations, spoken in guttural and arcane tongues, call upon otherworldly entities to lend their dark powers to The Coos' spells.
* **Depraved Acts:** In their pursuit of power, The Coos may engage in acts that defy morality and decency. These deeds can include desecration of sacred places, defiling the remains of the dead, and performing grotesque acts of cruelty. Such depravity solidifies their connection to the forces of darkness.

The twisted magic and rituals of The Coos are a testament to their unyielding pursuit of power and domination. Their sorcery is a reflection of their malevolent nature, leaving a trail of suffering and despair in their wake. The consequences of their dark arts ripple through Other World, serving as a constant reminder of the horrors that lurk in the shadows.

## Desire for Power and Fulfillment:

The Coos, fervent devotees of Baba Yaga and The Black Queen, are consumed by a relentless desire for power, fulfillment, and the relentless pursuit of forbidden knowledge. Their unwavering dedication knows no bounds, and they are willing to tread the darkest paths and transgress moral boundaries to achieve their ambitions. In their eyes, such actions are not justifiable means to an end but a testament to their unwavering devotion.

* **Relentless Pursuit of Power:** The Coos are driven by an insatiable hunger for power. They believe that by embracing the forces of darkness and mastering the macabre arts, they can ascend to new heights of supernatural might. This desire for power fuels their every action, spurring them to seek out forbidden rituals, tap into eldritch sources, and command dark magic.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecies:** The Coos view themselves as the chosen servants of Baba Yaga and The Black Queen, destined to fulfill ancient prophecies and usher in a new era of dominance. They see their actions as essential to realizing these prophecies, and they will stop at nothing to ensure their fulfillment.
* **Embrace of Darkness:** For The Coos, morality is a fleeting concept. They willingly embrace darkness and transgress moral boundaries, viewing such acts as a testament to their dedication to Baba Yaga and The Black Queen. The more they delve into the macabre and the forbidden, the more they believe they draw closer to their goals.
* **Forbidden Knowledge:** The pursuit of forbidden knowledge is a driving force for The Coos. They seek to unlock ancient secrets, delve into eldritch tomes, and uncover the mysteries of the universe that others fear to explore. Their insatiable curiosity drives them to uncover truths that most mortals would shudder to contemplate.
* **Unwavering Devotion:** The Coos are unwavering in their devotion to their dark patrons. They see themselves as instruments of their will, and their every action is an offering of loyalty and servitude. Their fanaticism knows no compromise, and they are willing to make any sacrifice in the name of their beliefs.

The Coos' relentless pursuit of power and fulfillment is a driving force that shapes their actions and decisions. Their dedication to the darkness, their patrons, and their own desires for supremacy make them formidable and uncompromising adversaries in the world of Other World.

## Secrecy and Manipulation:

Secrecy and manipulation are the hallmarks of The Coos, who operate in the shadows, concealing their practices and intentions from prying eyes. Their ability to manipulate, charm, and intrigue serves as a potent tool for furthering their dark agendas, creating an enigmatic aura that shrouds them in mystery. This mastery of trickery aligns perfectly with their fervent devotion to Baba Yaga and their embrace of The Black Queen's domains.

* **Operational Secrecy:** The Coos operate covertly, concealing their true identities and affiliations from outsiders. They maintain a network of secret hideouts and safe houses, where their sinister rituals and activities take place away from the prying eyes of the world. This secrecy allows them to avoid unwanted attention while pursuing their nefarious goals.
* **Intrigue and Deception:** Masters of intrigue and deception, The Coos excel at manipulating individuals and situations to their advantage. They use their charm and silver tongues to win the trust of unsuspecting victims, only to exploit their vulnerabilities and bend them to their will. This manipulation extends to both allies and enemies, as The Coos play a dangerous game of intrigue.
* **Information Control:** The Coos understand the value of information, and they go to great lengths to control it. They may employ spies, informants, and agents to gather intelligence on their adversaries and to keep their own secrets well-guarded. This control over information allows them to maintain the upper hand in their clandestine operations.
* **Layers of Disguise:** To further obscure their true intentions, The Coos often operate under multiple layers of disguise. They may adopt false identities, posing as innocent civilians, respected scholars, or trusted officials. This web of deception makes it difficult for anyone to discern their true nature and intentions.
* **Aura of Mystery:** An air of mystery surrounds The Coos, and they cultivate this aura intentionally. They allow rumors and legends to circulate about their activities, fueling fear and curiosity among those who dare to investigate. This mystique serves as both a shield and a weapon, dissuading potential threats and attracting those who seek to uncover their secrets.

The Coos' commitment to secrecy and manipulation is a double-edged sword, allowing them to operate from the shadows and manipulate events to their advantage. However, it also makes them vulnerable to those who can penetrate their web of deception and uncover the dark truths that lie at their core.

## Malevolent Nature:

The malevolence of the Coos is driven by their willingness to harm others to achieve their aims. While their motivations may align with personal power and desires, their actions can have dire consequences for those who stand in their way.

The Coos represent a complex and shadowy aspect of worship, intertwining their reverence for Baba Yaga with the darker impulses of their devotion to The Black Queen. Their secretive practices, embrace of twisted magic, and willingness to explore the darkest corners of their desires create a coven that is both intriguing and unsettling, making them formidable and enigmatic followers in the world of Other World.

## Covens and Hierarchy:

The Coos Covens and Hierarchy form a complex and structured organization of dark witches devoted to the worship of The Black Queen. As followers of this malevolent deity, the Coos operate within secretive and tightly-knit covens, each led by a powerful witch known as a Crone. This hierarchical structure defines their roles, responsibilities, and levels of influence within the coven and the greater world of dark magic.

* **Covens as Sisterhoods:** The Coos covens are akin to sisterhoods, where members share a deep bond forged through their devotion to The Black Queen. Covens are often composed of witches who have similar magical talents, objectives, or outlooks, fostering an environment of mutual support, loyalty, and shared ambitions.
* **Crone Leadership:** At the pinnacle of each coven stands the Crone, a high-ranking witch chosen for her exceptional magical prowess, cunning, and dedication. The Crone is believed to have a unique connection to The Black Queen, acting as a conduit for her dark power and guidance. The Crone is responsible for making key decisions, overseeing coven activities, and ensuring that the coven's goals align with The Black Queen's desires.
* **Maiden, Mother, Crone:** Within the hierarchy, the Crone is often supported by two other prominent positions: the Maiden and the Mother. These titles correspond to distinct phases of a witch's life and magical journey. The Maiden embodies youthful energy, curiosity, and initiation into the coven's secrets. The Mother symbolizes experience, nurturing, and mentorship, helping guide younger members. Together, these roles contribute to the coven's cohesion and vitality.
* **Initiation and Advancement:** Aspiring Coos witches undergo a rigorous initiation process to become full members of a coven. This process typically involves proving one's dedication, loyalty, and mastery of dark magic. Once initiated, witches can advance in rank through their dedication to The Black Queen's teachings, the completion of dark rituals, and the display of exceptional magical abilities.
* **Hierarchical Ranks:** Beyond the Maiden, Mother, and Crone roles, Coos covens often have additional hierarchical ranks that reflect a witch's proficiency, experience, and contributions. These ranks may include titles such as Acolyte, Enchantress, and High Enchantress, each conferring specific responsibilities and privileges.
* **Unity in Malevolence:** Despite their internal hierarchy, the Coos covens are united by their shared devotion to The Black Queen and the pursuit of power, control, and dominance. Their tightly-knit structure ensures that their dark rituals, spells, and ambitions remain focused and aligned with the dark deity's desires.
* **Geographical Influence:** The Coos covens are spread throughout various regions, exerting their influence from the shadows. Their secretive nature and affinity for hidden rituals make it challenging for outsiders to fully comprehend their operations, goals, and extent of their malevolence.

The Coos Covens and Hierarchy represent an intricate web of dark magic, loyalty, and ambition, contributing to the mystique and danger associated with the followers of The Black Queen. As they operate beneath the surface of the realm, their actions and objectives continue to impact the delicate balance between light and darkness.

## The Coos' Symbol:

The Coos' symbol consists of two crescent moons, one on the left and one on the right, forming an elegant and subtle curve. These crescents face inward, creating an open space between them. In the center of this space lies a full moon, radiating its ethereal glow. The crescent moons and the full moon together evoke a sense of balance and duality, symbolizing the Coos' alignment with both light and darkness. The arrangement of the moons suggests a connection between opposing forces, while the full moon at the heart of the design represents the culmination of power and hidden knowledge. The overall composition creates a captivating and enigmatic emblem that embodies the mystique and malevolence of the Coos' coven.

## **Red Ribbon Army**:

The Red Ribbon Army, a nightmarish and potent military force, serves as a testament to the dark and unholy powers harnessed by The Coos within Other World. These undead soldiers, known for their ominous appearance and unwavering loyalty, embody the malevolence and dread that defines their creators' sinister ambitions.

* **Appearance:** The soldiers of the Red Ribbon Army are wrapped in tattered, crimson bandages and wrappings, which enshroud their skeletal forms. These crimson bindings are not mere adornments but are infused with necromantic magic, granting the soldiers their unholy vitality. The bandages conceal the decayed flesh beneath, obscuring the horrors of their true nature. Hollow sockets where eyes once existed peer out from the depths of their crimson shrouds, giving them a haunting and soulless visage.

* **Unyielding Vigilance:** Far from sluggish or clumsy, the Red Ribbon Army soldiers are skilled combatants, proficient in various forms of weaponry and martial techniques. Their combat prowess is further heightened by their lack of fatigue. These undead warriors do not tire or require rest, allowing them to maintain an unyielding vigilance on the battlefield. This relentless endurance makes them a force to be reckoned with, as they continue to march forward long after the living have grown weary.
* **Loyalty and Obedience:** Bound by necromantic rituals and the dark will of The Coos, the soldiers of the Red Ribbon Army exhibit unwavering loyalty. They follow their orders without question, carrying out their dark master's bidding with grim determination. This loyalty extends beyond death, as they serve as undying enforcers of The Coos' will, spreading fear and despair wherever they tread.
* **Aura of Dread:** The presence of the Red Ribbon Army strikes terror into the hearts of those who encounter them. Their relentless advance, coupled with their eerie appearance and unrelenting determination, makes them a potent psychological weapon as well as a physical one. The mere sight of these crimson-wrapped revenants is often enough to break the morale of their foes.
* **Unholy Purpose:** The Red Ribbon Army exists not only as a military force but as a symbol of The Coos' dark ambitions. They are instruments of terror, used to enforce The Coos' will and to spread fear and chaos throughout Other World. Their unique attributes and unrelenting loyalty make them a formidable tool in The Coos' quest for power and dominion.

The Red Ribbon Army serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of necromancy and the twisted desires of their creators. Their crimson wrappings conceal not only their decaying forms but also the malevolent forces that bind them to their unholy purpose. In the shadows of Other World, they stand as an ever-present threat, a relentless force that must be vanquished to preserve the light and hope of the living.

## Antagonists and Foes:

The Coos are often seen as malevolent forces by the general population, and their activities are met with fear and resistance. The Council of Rowsha and the followers of other benevolent deities are staunch opponents of the Coos, recognizing the danger they pose to the realm's harmony and well-being.

### **Panacea Knights:**

The War between the Coos and the Panacea Knights marked a significant and tumultuous period in the history of Pneumanor. It was a conflict born of opposing ideologies, dark magic, and a struggle for power and dominance.

* **Origins and Catalysts:** The origins of the war can be traced back to the growing influence of the Coos, a secretive and malevolent coven of witches devoted to The Black Queen. As their dark magic and ambitions expanded, they clashed with the Panacea Knights, a noble and valiant order of knights and healers dedicated to preserving peace, justice, and the well-being of Pneumanor's inhabitants.
* **Clash of Ideals:** The Coos and the Panacea Knights represented two polarized ideologies. The Coos sought power, domination, and the fulfillment of their own desires through dark magic and manipulation. The Panacea Knights, on the other hand, upheld principles of healing, compassion, and protection, striving to bring balance and harmony to the realm.

* **Escalation and Conflict:** Tensions escalated as the Coos' malevolent actions began to threaten the realm's stability. Their dark rituals, curses, and manipulations led to suffering and unrest among the populace. The Panacea Knights, guided by their commitment to justice, rose to confront this growing threat, viewing the Coos as a dangerous force that needed to be eradicated for the greater good.
* **Battles and Struggles:** The war played out through a series of battles, skirmishes, and clashes between the Coos and the Panacea Knights. The knights employed their combat skills, strategic prowess, and healing magic to counter the Coos' dark spells and curses. The conflict extended to both physical and mystical realms, as the two factions clashed not only on the battlefield but also through the weaving of powerful enchantments.
* **Alliance and Unity:** The Panacea Knights, driven by their sense of duty and their determination to protect the realm, forged alliances with other benevolent forces, including followers of other deities, mystical beings, and communities affected by the Coos' malevolence. This unity demonstrated the collective resistance against the darkness that threatened to engulf Pneumanor.
* **Culmination and Resolution:** After a protracted and intense conflict, the war culminated in a climactic battle between the Coos and the Panacea Knights. This battle, often remembered as the "Harmony's Stand," saw the combined forces of light and goodness prevailing against the Coos' dark magic. The Panacea Knights' unwavering resolve, coupled with the assistance of allies and cosmic energies, brought about the downfall of the Coos.
* **Legacy and Lessons:** The war left a lasting impact on Pneumanor's history. It served as a reminder of the constant struggle between light and darkness within the realm. The conflict underscored the importance of unity, compassion, and the defense of cosmic balance. The Panacea Knights' dedication to protecting the realm from malevolent forces earned them admiration and respect among the realm's inhabitants.

The War between the Coos and the Panacea Knights remains a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for vigilance and cooperation to ensure that the balance and harmony of Pneumanor endure in the face of dark and malevolent influences. See Harmony's Struggle.

## Notable Coo Witches:

### **Nyxara Shadowthorn - The Enchantress:**

Nyxara was a cunning and manipulative Coos known for her mastery of enchantments and illusions. She used her magic to sow discord among the Panacea Knights and create deception on the battlefield. Nyxara's ability to cloud minds and manipulate perceptions made her a challenging opponent to overcome.

Among the Lead Coos who fought in the Harmony's Struggle, the one who held the position of leader within the Coos coven was Nyxara Shadowthorn, also known as "The Enchantress." Nyxara was a cunning and manipulative Coos with a mastery of enchantments and illusions. Her ability to sow discord, create deception, and manipulate perceptions made her a central figure in orchestrating the Coos' strategies and tactics during the war.

As the leader of the Coos, Nyxara played a key role in coordinating the actions of the other Lead Coos and directing the overall efforts of the coven. Her influence extended not only to the battlefield but also to the covert operations and schemes that the Coos employed to undermine the Panacea Knights and spread darkness throughout Pneumanor.

### **Dreven Blackthorn - The Necromancer:**

Dreven was a sinister necromancer who commanded legions of undead minions. He specialized in raising the fallen and utilizing dark necromantic energies to spread fear and chaos among the ranks of the Panacea Knights. His control over the realm of death added a formidable dimension to the Coos' forces.

### **Vespera Nightshade - The Sorceress of Shadows:**

Vespera was a Coos with an affinity for shadow magic, able to manipulate darkness and wield its destructive power. She used her mastery of shadows to ambush and strike at unsuspecting targets, leaving behind a trail of confusion and terror.

### **Malachi Bloodfang - The Blood Mage:**

Malachi was a blood mage who drew power from sacrificial rituals and dark blood magic. He used his abilities to drain the life force of his enemies and channel their energy into devastating spells. His gruesome practices and potent magical arsenal made him a fearsome adversary.

### **Zephyr Windwalker - The Elemental Conjurer:**

Zephyr was an elemental conjurer who commanded the forces of nature to do her bidding. She could summon powerful storms, control fire, and manipulate earth and water. Zephyr's control over the elements added a dynamic and unpredictable element to the Coos' strategies.

### **Lilith Darkheart - The Mistress of Curses:**

Lilith was known for her mastery of curses and hexes, which she used to afflict the Panacea Knights with misfortune and affliction. Her dark magic brought suffering and chaos to the battlefield, weakening the resolve of the forces of light.

### **Thorne Nightshade - The Shadowblade Assassin:**

Thorne was a Coos assassin who specialized in stealth and precision strikes. He infiltrated enemy lines to eliminate key targets and sow fear among the Panacea Knights. Thorne's ability to strike swiftly and vanish into the shadows made him a constant threat.

### Marie Le Rouge

Marie Le Rouge is a striking figure among the demi-human Catfolk, known for her enchanting presence and her deep connection to the forbidden arts of the Coos witches. As a devoted worshiper of the Black Queen, the goddess of Lust, Revelry, Domination, and Death, Marie holds a unique position within the enigmatic Coos coven.