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Intalant's Third Rule

Morrigan was born in a large town in Ireland called Intalant, which was ruled by dominant, Christian men. Intalant was the only town that experienced Christianization through violence and marginalization. Through many long years, Intalant established various, absurd rules that favored perfectionism. Morrigan grew up in the process of the third rule of Intalant which read: All manner of transparent infirmity of the mind are naught but the handiwork of the devil. Those who have been beset by the devil's malevolence must be compelled to undergo a process of rehabilitation, that they might be purged of his taint and made whole in the holy name of the Lord. Morrigan did not pease to these rules, but the fear ultimately forced her to obey. She promised herself that she would live the best life she possibly could and escape Intalant permanently. 

Morrigan lived a mundane life as a young woman, but when she was no longer a Maiden, she achieved self-actualization. Upon giving birth to a baby girl as a newlywed, she instantly held on to that feeling of overwhelming joy. She knew that she wanted to hold each sacred life to ensure the safety of the vulnerable. She expressed this devoted ecstasy to her husband Neit, who nodded in understanding at his wife’s determination. What bonded this couple was not only through their newborn daughter but by the exact passion for leaving Intalant. Morrigan, however, insisted on protecting and guiding newborns who will undoubtedly be affected by the nature of Intalant. 

She dedicated many hours as a midwife throughout many homes. Mothers absolutely adored Morrigan for her generosity and compassion. She made both the mothers and newborns feel safe and made mothers promise to dedicate their strength to their children. No mother has ever refused to take this oath. Due to Morrigan’s revolutionary power, mothers all over Intalant were highly respected. The council that ruled Intalant acknowledged the power of Morrigan and craved over it. After many months, Morrigan was given the title of ‘The Great Mother.’ The Great Mother, however, could not escape the anxiety caused by Intalant. 

The Great Mother stood frozen in place when the hundredth baby was placed in her arms. She stared fearfully at the infant and was overwhelmed with apprehension. The Great Mother knew that the infant would grow with imperfections. She worried that Intalant would hold her accountable for allowing an imperfect child to live freely. She hastily gave the baby back to its mother, shed the slimmest tear, and walked away as the other physicians stood in awe. When the room was alone, The Great Mother confronted the exhausted mother.

“She’s beautiful, isn’t she?” the mother, who was elevated with emotions, said wearily.

“Very beautiful indeed,” The Great Mother lied. “I must confess a thing or two, however.”

“Please, go ahead!” she beamed.

Without thinking, The Great Mother hurriedly inserted, “I must take the baby from you.”

Shocked, the mother said nothing for a minute and laughed it off as a joke. The intense stare-down, however, proved the mother wrong. “You can’t be serious!”

“I’m sorry, Mathair. But your child is defective. I sensed it as soon as I held her in my arms. Your child will be nothing but a burden to society!”

“Please, Great Mother! No!” she yelled exhaustingly. 

“Give me the girl, or I will have to force her from your hands.”

“Please don’t!” she pleaded. “What can I do to make you change your mind?”

“Nothing will change my mind,” she replied calmly. “Now, please, give me the baby.”

“I can give you money! I will allow you to sleep with my husband!”

“Don’t be silly, Mathair!” The Great Mother snapped. “Give me the baby!” The two mothers fought, but The Great Mother successfully snatched the baby girl as she cried for the comfort of her true mother. The mother fell to the ground painfully as heartache consumed her soul. The Great Mother was recognized for her gift and was praised heavily by the council. 

“All hail The Great Mother!” they would cheer. “Bringer of perfectionism!” As the venom of the town grew stronger, so did her power. The Great Mother was exceedingly respected by the people for her nature. The Great Mother still loved, although not unconditionally; for her frightened mind did not allow her. Faith and hope was the only matter that kept the people sane.

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